Can incrementalism work?

Incrementalism is the only realistic option.

Question: Can incrementalism work?
Position1 of 3›: Yes, incrementalism works.
Argument‹3 of 3: Incrementalism is the only realistic option.

Incrementalism simplifies complex problems into manageable steps. It allows for comprising and trial and error.

The argument

Incrementalism was established as a model because there were too many limitations (conflict, time, and lack of knowledge) to allow for comprehensive, rational changes to be made. These rational changes are when people decide what is best and then make that change no matter how big and contested it is. This is not realistic. With incrementalism, policymakers simplify the process by compromising, focusing on only a limited number of options, and creating manageable steps.They focus on the feasible. Another realistic consequence of incrementalism is that it allows for the process of trial and error. Corrections can be made as the gradual changes are implemented. Substantial changes can still be made, but they are implemented in steps.

Premises

[P1]Comprehensive, rational policy changes are unrealistic because of conflicts, time constraints, and limited knowledge. [P2] Incrementalism makes policymaking feasible by compromising, narrowing options, and breaking changes into manageable steps. [P3] Gradual implementation enables trial and error, allowing corrections along the way while still achieving substantial change. [C] Therefore, incrementalism works as the only realistic approach to policymaking.

Counter-arguments

Viewing incrementalism as the only realistic option limits people to never try for sweeping reforms.

Rejecting the premises

[Rejecting P5] Incrementalism is not the only realistic option. Having this view means that people won't try for sweeping reforms.