Developments in Dutch Environmental Policy: Target Rationality or Cultural Shift?

In this article we have discussed developments in Dutch environmental policy from a certain 'rational' and a certain 'cultural' perspective. Both perspectives appear to be satisfactory only to a certain degree. The interpretation of the development of policy as a consequence of a learning process leaves important questions unanswered. The changes towards a consensual approach and standards that are based more on group ties can only be understood on the basis of cultural theory if a shift in orientation within the various subcultures is assumed. This is contrary to theory, however. After all, according to theory such situations are not 'viable'.