Frame-based guide to situated decision-making on climate change (IARU conference paper)

Abstract

The present paper describes a frame-based approach to situated-decision-making on climate change. Based on the multidisciplinary literature on the relationship between frames and decision-making, it argues that members of a decision unit may gain from making frames more explicit. Frames are the organizing principles of perception that shape in a “hidden” and taken-for-granted way how people develop a particular conceptualization of an issue. Science-related issues, such as climate change, are often linked to a few frames that consistently appear across different policy areas. Indeed, it appears that there are some very contrasting ways in which climate adaptation may be framed. These frames can be characterized in terms of a simple framework that highlights specific interpretations of climate issues. A second framework clarifies the built-in frames of decision-tools. Using Thompson’s two basic dimensions of decision, it identifies the main uncertainties that should be taken into account in developing a decision strategy. The paper characterizes four types of decision strategy, focusing on (1) computation, (2) compromise, (3) judgment, or (4) inspiration, and links each strategy to the most appropriate methods and tools, as well as the most appropriate social structure. Our experiences show that the frame-based guide can work as an eye-opener for members of a decision unit, particularly where it demonstrates how to add more perspectives to the decision.