Published in

Handbook of Public Policy in Latin America, 2025, Chapter 13

Authors

Laura Flamand, Ana Paulina González Arroyo

Abstract

This chapter examines the evolution of the rationalist approach to public policy design in Latin America, which relies on facts, analysis, and systematic procedures to develop policy recommendations. It begins by outlining key elements of this approach, such as planning, cost–benefit analysis, and other methods of policy appraisal. The chapter then analyzes three cases: the creation of Brazil’s Unified Health System in 1989, the use of a randomized trial to assess Mexico’s Seguro Popular program in 2005, and reforms to Colombia’s General System of Social Security in Health up to 2015. The analysis reveals that the rationalist approach is still rarely used in the region, even in technical areas like health, and is often complemented by the argumentative approach in the most successful and enduring reforms.