Survival of the ideas that fit: An evolutionary analogy for the use of evidence in policy

This paper explores bias in the use of evidence in policy. It argues that existing models

of the evidence–policy relationship neglect the tendency for attention to be paid only to

that evidence helpful to the interests of powerful social groups. An evolutionary analogy

is used to explain how this bias arises, without the need for irrationality or conspiracy

on the part of policy makers. Examples are given in the fields of drug, asylum and other

policies, and the possible responses by researchers to the biased use of research evidence

are discussed.