Explores the nature of social science, the knowledge and information created by it, and how this is applied to real world policy problems. These applications are examined in the context of a range of policy areas drawn from health, education, environment and social policy. Investigates how policy is developed, changed, implemented and evaluated and the role social science plays in this process. Considers practical, political and ethical problems encountered by social scientists in applying their knowledge and skills to inform policy and the role social science plays in the management of social change.