Policy Research in the Review of Regional Studies

Researchers in regional science generally describe their work as policy oriented. This paper examines articles in the Review for 1990-2002 to determine the extent to which they address policy, at three levels. A context for examining policy orientation is developed, and articles are judged within this context. Less than half of the articles focused on or mentioned policy. Of those that did, questions are raised about the usefulness of the policy recommendations or conclusions.