public policy

American  

[puhb-lik pol-uh-see] / ˈpʌb lɪk ˈpɒl ə si /

noun

1. 1. the body of laws and other measures that affect the general public.

      These officeholders are creating public policy on important issues including affordable housing and the environment.

   2. the underlying principles, values, or objectives that inform these laws and other measures: In a secular state, no religion can become the basis of public policy.

      The Institute participates in shaping public debate and public policy through inquiry and dialogue.

      In a secular state, no religion can become the basis of public policy.

2. Law. the principle that injury to the public good or public order constitutes a basis for declaring an act or transaction illegal or invalid.

   The principle of public policy requires that we judge the tendency of the contract at the time when it was entered into.

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Etymology

Origin of public policy

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

“Affordability is a growing challenge for this population,” said Alan Weil, AARP’s senior vice president of public policy.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

“Californians deserve a fair process, and voters deserve to hear from all qualified voices,” Villaraigosa, who taught public policy at USC for three years after leaving office, said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

In the motion, Uber disputed that its new feature violates the Unruh Act - which prohibits sex discrimination by businesses - and said it "serves a strong and recognized public policy interest in enhancing safety".

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

“Even if the fighting in Iran lasts only a few weeks, the long-term cost easily runs into trillions of dollars,” wrote External link Linda Bilmes, senior lecturer in public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

At Harvard, I could study law while pursuing a graduate degree in public policy at the Kennedy School of Government, which appealed to me.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson