Understanding Deliberative Citizens: The Application of Q Methodology to Deliberation on Policy Issues

Abstract

This article argues that deliberation provides a suitable ll1ethod for understanding what the public ideally wants when it C0111es to decision 1naking. Qlnethodology provides the basis for an ideal approach for understanding what is happening during deliberation andfor developing a deeper understanding of the choices being 1nade. The approach reported in this article involves using Q sorting in conjunction with a survey of policy preferences, both ad111inistered before and after deliberation. The focus is a deliberative process conductedto decide thefllture ofthe ageing Frelnantle Bridge, 'here the issue involved conflicting vaIlles. The Q analysis revealed three 111ain positions (factors) in relation to the issue, each tending to correspond to different kinds ofoptions for replacing the bridge. Overalt deliberation resliited in a l110ve awayfro 111 concern about the heritage value ofthe old bridge and toward a safety-orientedposition. There was also a corresponding change in preference in favollr ofoptions that participants believed would itnprove safety. The approach provides inforrnation that is lIseful for policy 111aking because it identifies the 1nain reasons driving the for111ation ofpublic opinion and the CirCll111stances in which opinions change when the pllblic is given the chance to fully reflect on the outcorne.