Why compare? A response to Stephen Lawton

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Abstract
This paper aims to stimulate interest in comparative education policy analysis through a critique of a paper written by Stephen Lawton (Journal of Education Policy, 7(2), 1992). We argue that such comparative analysis is an important element in understanding neo‐liberal education reforms. However, more work needs to be done in providing adequate categories for analysis. We do not believe that Lawton's meet the criteria for such analysis. In the first part of the paper we discuss Lawton's categories, showing how, in our view, they fall short. The second part provides an initial, and very brief, discussion of what might constitute adequate categories for analysis. We end with a plea for more work in this field, and invite others to work with us!