I.Stages in the Policy-Making Process 1.Problem recognition (agenda setting) Most problems are solved privately (without government actions)or at the state and local levels. Major causes of problem recognition: 1)big social or political events,such as the Great Depression,911 terrorist attacks,natural disasters, etc.; 2)serious issues affecting large number of people; 3)issues promoted by important individuals and groups,such as the president of the U.S.,important members of Congress,celebrities,influencing interest groups,etc.I. Stages in the Policy-Making Process 1. Problem recognition (agenda setting) Most problems are solved privately (without government actions) or at the state and local levels. Major causes of problem recognition: 1) big social or political events, such as the Great Depression, 911 terrorist attacks, natural disasters, etc.; 2) serious issues affecting large number of people; 3) issues promoted by important individuals and groups, such as the president of the U.S., important members of Congress, celebrities, influencing interest groups, etc