Keywords

qualitative-quantitative methodologies, scenarios, epistemology, poststructuralism, climate change

Start Date

28-6-2018 10:40 AM

End Date

28-6-2018 12:00 PM

Abstract

This paper discusses an innovative qualitative-quantitative modelling method relevant to two characteristics of wicked problems: they have no definitive formulation, and the choice of how they are defined or explained determines the nature of their resolution. Through projects conceptualizing the human dimensions of climate change, the socio-technical dynamics of the Energiewende (Germany’s low-carbon energy transition), and of water futures of a megacity (Lima), it has been found that the system-theoretic method of cross-impact balances (CIB) reveals fundamental assumptions in interdisciplinary modelling projects and opens them up for investigation. This can democratize modelling exercises while preserving scientific credibility. It can also enhance mutual learning across collaborators and study participants by interrogating the processes, collaborators, methods, or participants that appear to have epistemic authority at different stages of the project and whether such authority is justified. Through these capabilities, CIB gives new practical relevance to deconstructive, critical practices that characterize modes of thought from the humanities and social sciences—namely poststructuralism—and brings new reflexivity to modelling studies.

Stream and Session

Stream C

Session C14: Towards Interdisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Collaboration in Environmental Modelling: Innovative Practices to Address Wicked Problems

This submission is for an oral presentation of the paper. Many thanks for your consideration.

Download
COinS
 
Jun 28th, 10:40 AM Jun 28th, 12:00 PM

Practical poststructuralism for confronting wicked problems

This paper discusses an innovative qualitative-quantitative modelling method relevant to two characteristics of wicked problems: they have no definitive formulation, and the choice of how they are defined or explained determines the nature of their resolution. Through projects conceptualizing the human dimensions of climate change, the socio-technical dynamics of the Energiewende (Germany’s low-carbon energy transition), and of water futures of a megacity (Lima), it has been found that the system-theoretic method of cross-impact balances (CIB) reveals fundamental assumptions in interdisciplinary modelling projects and opens them up for investigation. This can democratize modelling exercises while preserving scientific credibility. It can also enhance mutual learning across collaborators and study participants by interrogating the processes, collaborators, methods, or participants that appear to have epistemic authority at different stages of the project and whether such authority is justified. Through these capabilities, CIB gives new practical relevance to deconstructive, critical practices that characterize modes of thought from the humanities and social sciences—namely poststructuralism—and brings new reflexivity to modelling studies.