Narrative strategies for emerging disruptive technologies: A case study of Blockchain for Europe

Abstract

AbstractHow do interest groups advocating for emerging disruptive technologies use narrative strategies? I argue that the characteristics of this policy area should define how actors use policy narratives and narrative strategies. Interest groups that strive for innovation, support, and development of emerging technologies should mention benefits of policies and policy proposals more than costs. In addition, they should use the hero character more than the villain and victim characters. This article studies the Twitter messages of Blockchain for Europe, the most prevalent business association representing cryptocurrency companies in the EU and finds evidence for these hypotheses. I show how novel interest groups use strategies to influence policies targeting emerging disruptive technologies like crypto‐assets. Also, I contribute to the Narrative Policy Framework research by demonstrating how narrative strategies can be influenced by the context surrounding specific issues.Related ArticlesChang, Katherine T., and Elizabeth A. Koebele. 2020. “What Drives Coalitions' Narrative Strategy? Exploring Policy Narratives around School Choice.” Politics & Policy 48(4): 618–57. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12367.O'Donovan, Kristin T. 2018. “Does the Narrative Policy Framework Apply to Local Policy Issues?” Politics & Policy 46(4): 532–70. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12265.Shanahan, Elizabeth A., Mark K. McBeth, and Paul L. Hathaway. 2011. “Narrative Policy Framework: The Influence of Media Policy Narrative on Public Opinion.” Politics & Policy 39(3): 373–400. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00295.x.