Dialogue and consultation on contentious societal issues in a new digital era (Political Science)
The interface between industry and society has become an important political arena. There is an increasing need for forums that bring these actors together in joint discussions about the future.
Subject description
Political science is the scientific study of politics and political systems and includes both empirical and theoretical studies. Research focuses on issues related to how natural resources, energy and environment-related conflicts and agreements are managed by individuals and interest groups as well as by political and administrative systems. Dominant research areas are public policy and administration, institutional analysis, comparative politics, public opinion and political theory.
Project description
We live in a time of rapid ecological and social change that redefines the boundaries between state, market and civil society. This applies not least to natural resource policy where the interface between industry and society has become an important political arena. There is a growing need for forums that bring these actors together in joint discussions about the future. Previous research has mainly focused on traditional forums for collaboration, while the contemporary debate takes place online and in various digital platforms. Our knowledge of the obstacles and opportunities of digital communication on complex societal issues is very limited. The aim of the project is therefore to investigate how digital forums should be designed to support deliberation, contribute positively to the actors involved and result in more fact-based, and widely accepted, processes and decisions. The research is based on comparative case studies of consultation processes in the mineral sector and the forest sector. The project is multidisciplinary and is carried out in close collaboration between the disciplines of political science and information systems and with actors from industry and civil society.
The PhD student working on this project is Rebecka Berg from Luleå. She has a master's degree in political science at Luleå University of Technology.
Why did you apply to the SUN Graduate School?
“I applied to SUN Graduate School because of the profile, the emphasis on interdisciplinary research and my interest in natural resource use. I believe that it is very important to work for sustainable development and contribute knowledge to help with the transition, one of the most difficult tasks we have in these times.”
SUN Graduate School is composed of an interdisciplinary group of PhD students, what do you think about that?
“Interdisciplinary work is key to solving complex societal issues that need innovative solutions. I believe that interdisciplinary groups lead to meaningful discussions, opinions, and new perspectives.”
As a doctoral student at SUN, how do you hope to contribute to the industrial and societal transition to achieve the global goals?
“Some of the most pressing issues today are climate change and the use of natural resources. There is often a lack of consensus on the use of resources, for example in the energy, forestry and mineral sectors. Processes and decision-making on the use of these resources often lead to conflict and disagreement. The project I will be working on will look at how and if digital forums can help bring legitimacy to the decision-making and process, if it leads to beneficial outcomes and promotes deliberation.”
Please tell us something you know about Luleå and Northern Sweden?
“Coming from northern Sweden, I always emphasize that one of the most beautiful things about the north is the mountains and nature. One of the world heritage sites, Laponia, is only a few hours away. Vast nature and amazing scenery is what northern Sweden is all about. The entire coastal area around Luleå and the archipelago is beautiful. And even though the winters are tough here, the summer makes up for it.”
Contact
Rebecka Berg
- PhD Student
- 0920-492874
- rebecka.berg@ltu.se
- Rebecka Berg
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