• Define the problem
• Gather evidence
• Identify causes
• Evaluate a policy
• Develop solutions
• Select best solution
• Benefits & Costs
• The Prince System
• Political Strategies

• Information Tools
• Problem Resources
• Teacher Information
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Estimating Issue Position

Issue Position is the current attitude of the player toward the policy. It is expressed as a number ranging from +5 to -5 to indicate levels of support or opposition. A +5 is assigned if the player is firmly in favor of the issue and is unlikely to change; a +4,+3,+2, or +1 indicates lower levels of firmness of the player's support. A neutral position is expressed as 1/2. Similarly, a -5 indicates firm opposition, while a -4, -3, -2, or -1 indicate lower degrees of opposition. When estimating a player's issue position:

• Read and listen to what the player says about the issue.
• Estimate from the player's economic, social, or political standing what the player's position is likely to be on the basis of self-interest.
• Look for differences among individuals and factions within groups and organizations. Look for inconsistencies in statements by individual members. If the contrasting positions seeme evenly balanced, assign a 1/2(neutral) issue position. If there seems a slight positive or negative balance toward the issue, assign a +1 or -1 for the player's issue position.

Estimating Issue Position, Power, and Priority for Each Player