Which policy mechanism describes governmental policies changing gradually over time and only at the margins?

Incrementalism describes the gradual, step-by-step approach to policymaking where changes are made slowly and typically at the margins rather than through radical shifts. This mechanism reflects how governmental policies evolve over time by making small adjustments and modifications in response to new information, public opinion, or changing circumstances without completely overhauling existing systems.

This approach allows policymakers to manage risks and avoid potential backlash that could arise from more significant, sweeping reforms. Additionally, incrementalism often leads to more stable and manageable transitions, giving policymakers the opportunity to assess the impact of minor changes before deciding on further actions. It is a common strategy in many areas of governance, where the complexity of issues and the need for stakeholder consensus make large-scale reforms less feasible.

Other mechanisms like iron triangle, pluralism, and consensus building focus on different aspects of policymaking. Iron triangles emphasize the stable relationships among bureaucracies, legislatures, and interest groups, while pluralism is concerned with the competition among diverse interest groups influencing policy decisions. Consensus building involves engaging stakeholders in dialogue to reach agreements, which can result in more substantial changes rather than incremental ones.