Mapping Theories on Public Policy: The New Institutionalist Approach From Brazilian Research

ABSTRACT

This article investigates the theoretical and methodological landscape of Brazilian public policy research, mapping the contributions of neo‐institutionalism. Using bibliometric, scientometric, and content analysis of 323 articles from the Scielo database from 1987 to 2024, the study evaluates how institutions are integrated as explanatory variables rather than mere contextual background. Results indicate that while neo‐institutionalist models have gained leadership since 2015, only one‐third of the analyzed articles use institutions explicitly as an explanatory factor. “State capacities” emerged as the most prevalent thematic cluster and primary causal mechanism, particularly regarding federal and municipal implementation. While approximately two‐thirds of the focused sample sought causal explanations, the study identifies a significant “parochial bias” and a lack of comparative international research. The authors conclude by advocating for a more rigorous causal mechanistic framework to bridge the gap between empirical descriptions and nomological theory building.