Public Dialogue Research Articles

#Polarized: Gauging Potential Policy Bargaining Ranges Between Opposing Social Movements of Black Lives Matter and Police Lives Matter

(1) Background: Since the death of George Floyd, the social movement Black Lives Matter continues to dominate the American political psyche, not only advancing a public dialogue but also escalating the polarization of supported solutions for policing and systemic discrimination. (2) Methods: Using a qualitative context analysis approach, we assessed over 350 sources related to social justice literature and policy-relevant documents to identify key policy solutions supported by the American Black Lives Matter movement compared to the Blue Lives Matter movement. We applied Fearon’s bargaining range of war model to analyze the extent to which the policy recommendations of these two opposing movements may overlap. The purpose was to identify and categorize agreement alternatives across various sectors. This research presents top policy solutions, assessing their bargaining ranges. (3) Results: 32 of the 36 top policy reform alternatives at the national level have sufficient bargaining ranges. This analysis indicates the importance of supporting various sectors like mental health/psychosocial policies and programs, which can (1) serve as a focal point of agreement between contending movements, and (2) decrease racial injustice through strategic bargaining. (4) Conclusions: In a divisively political landscape, it is crucial to identify starting points for negotiation among contending actors. Identifying bargaining opportunities can help seed a dialogue that may benefit all parties involved.

Black Studies and Public Humanities

Abstract This essay brings Black Studies, now commonly referred to as Africana Studies, further into the public humanities dialogue. Scholars in the public humanities field are urging a practice of humanities that is collaborative and committed to racial and social justice, especially in the context of community-based scholarship. The origin and current protocols of Black Studies are also community-centric and operate within a liberatory framework in that it is ultimately concerned with the vitality of Black people across the diaspora. The essay describes the correlation between Black Studies and public humanities and discusses the usefulness of both disciplines in reckoning with slavery and its legacies at higher education institutions. In addition to giving a short genealogy of public humanities and Black Studies, the essay uses William & Mary’s Lemon Project: A Journey of Reconciliation and Chesapeake Heartland: An African American at African American Humanities Project at Washington College as examples on how to possibly navigate the challenges ahead as public humanists and Black Studies scholars critically engage with the public on memorialization, reconciliation, and redress.

The Safe Drinking Water Act at 50: Another Identity Crisis

Key TakeawaysThe Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) of 1974 (amended in 1986, 1996, and 2018) shows the tension between purity and safety, cost and benefits, and balancing risks, down to today's policy debates.Following the 1996 amendments, regulatory successes include arsenic, radionuclides, filter backwash recycling, total coliform, disinfectants and disinfection byproducts, and enhanced surface water treatment.With recent drinking water standards, such as the 2024 per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances rule, based on very low detection levels, the SDWA continues to generate intense public dialogue.

Resisting ‘Universal Nursery Policy Project’ in Chile: Early Childhood Education Professional Associations and Unions reconceptualizing neoliberal professionalism

ABSTRACT This article unpacks ECE professional associations and unions (ECEPAUs) pathways of resistance to a ‘Universal Nursery Policy Project’ (UNPP) and how ECEPAUs have reconceptualized the professionalism of the nursery within the Chilean neoliberal agenda. Drawing on a post-qualitative methodology, with three datasets of participant observations, in-depth interviews, discussion groups, and inductive thematic content analysis, findings show three resistance pathways building professionalism: 1) Working mother critique and lobbyist creations rebuilding technical professionalism; 2) Babies’ forgotten right to education critique and walkouts for ground-up professionalism; and 3) Nursery marketization critique and dialogic creations for democratic and social justice professionalism. Finally, we discuss how pathways of resistance to UNPP entangle critique and creation to build coexistant technical and alternative professionalisms. Though ECEPAUs’ resistance to UNPP does not transform neoliberal professionalism, it envisions the professionalism of the nursery as a common good, reconceptualizing it in the public dialogue for greater justice from the cradle.

Impact of climate change, environmental pollution, and nutrition on women’s reproductive health

In recent years, interest in the impact of the environment on human health, including the reproductive function of women, has increased significantly. This review aimed at analyzing the dependence of women’s reproductive health on environmental conditions and dietary patterns. The study evaluates the direct impact of pollutants, such as heavy metals and endocrine disruptors, on reproductive health and their indirect effects through changes in dietary habits and the quality of consumed food. Moreover, the study focused on the relationship between the quality of the environment, including the level of air pollution, and women’s reproductive health. Furthermore, the article describes the effect of the mechanisms of chemical substances on the endocrine system and subsequent reproductive outcomes and the influence of nutrients and chemicals contained in agricultural products. Data from various studies worldwide were used; thus, the conclusions are more universal and generalized. The authors emphasize the need for adopting international measures to improve environmental standards and develop strategies to reduce chemical pollution in air and water. Moreover, this study highlights the consequences of climate changes for public and reproductive health, emphasizing the urgency of adapting healthcare and social systems to change environmental conditions. Such changes require a comprehensive approach in response strategies, including reforming the food industry and agriculture and increasing public awareness and activity in environmental well-being issues. Additionally, using various studies as examples, issues concerning the relationship between climate changes and human health, in general, and the need for adapting social and healthcare systems to the current level of environmental stress are raised. This review aimed at stimulating public dialogue and developing innovative approaches to addressing the issue of improving women’s reproductive health against the backdrop of environmental changes and challenges of the modern world.

Potential of elites in consolidation of public opinion in eastern and western approaches

The authors proceed from the classical understanding of the elite as a social group endowed with power and capable of influencing public opinion. The paper represents the examination of the role of elites – political, economic and social – in the formation of public ideas, values and political attitudes. The problem is conditioned, on the one hand, by the intensification of geopolitical confrontation and the formation of polar ideological concepts on both sides of the ocean, on the other hand – by the dynamic change in characteristics of media environment, which lead to increased centrifugal processes and polarization of public opinion on current events, values and ideology. The authors take into account the widely accepted hypothesis of relative homogeneity of elites (Huntington, Sklair) in the sense that cultural differences and stereotypes influence decision-making in this environment the least. This assumption became the starting point in choosing the topic, predetermined the search for possible points of contact in building a public dialogue, and, in general, served as the basis for a conceptual assessment of the ability of elites to resolve insurmountable contradictions between different segments of the political media space. The authors identified similarities and differences in the understanding of the social and political role of elites in the East and West and proposed possible routes for the development of dialogue. The study is based on the works of the classics of the theory of elites, as well as on modern research in the field of social communication and media.

Comparative Analysis of Biblical Statements and Contemporary Science Views

This comparative analysis delves into the intricate relationship between Biblical science views and contemporary scientific perspectives. Examining biblical narratives through the lens of modern scientific understanding, the study navigates the complexities inherent in reconciling ancient wisdom with empirical methodologies. The analysis encompasses key themes such as the creation narrative, cosmology, and natural phenomena, emphasizing the symbolic richness and cultural contexts embedded in biblical texts. Acknowledging the Bible’s role as a sacred and moral guide, the study contrasts it with the evidence-based approaches of contemporary science. While the Bible offers timeless wisdom and moral teachings, its scientific views often reflect the understanding of the ancient world. Contemporary science, grounded in observation, experimentation, and empirical data, explores the natural world’s intricacies with a methodological rigor distinct from religious texts. The dialogue between these perspectives underscores the importance of recognizing the distinct purposes and realms of religious and scientific knowledge. Recommendations include fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, promoting educational initiatives that integrate both perspectives, and facilitating public dialogues to enhance mutual understanding. Ethical reflections derived from shared principles offer common ground, while continued research into the historical and cultural contexts of biblical texts contributes to nuanced interpretations. Ultimately, the study advocates for an inclusive and enlightened approach that nurtures a harmonious coexistence between faith and reason. By implementing these recommendations, it aims to create an environment fostering dialogue and collaboration between theologians, scientists, and the wider public. Through such efforts, a richer understanding of the universe and the diversity of human knowledge emerges, embracing the complexities of existence and celebrating the shared pursuit of wisdom.

The Counter-Majoritarian Referendum: Popular Voting Processes and Constitutional Change

ABSTRACT On the one hand, it seems important to bring real citizens into the constitutional processes of making and amending constitutions. This is important in order to foster a sense of ownership and commitment to constitutional principles, have those documents reflect the interests and concerns of ordinary people, and fulfill the principles of popular sovereignty and constituent authority of the people. On the other hand, there are many misgivings about handing over decisional power to the people (for example through referendums) on constitutional issues. The worry here is that these means of bringing citizen into the process are easily hijacked by majoritarian or populist forces and may be used to undermine rather than strengthen principles of constitutional democracy. Constitutions are, among other things, supposed to protect individuals and minorities from majorities. This is the classic tension between democracy and constitutionalism. One solution is to shift ideas of popular sovereignty away from voting and towards fostering public dialogue. In this paper, I argue that one of the most effective ways to foster public dialogue about constitutional essentials is through initiating a referendum. Thus I defend constitutional referendums on the counterintuitive grounds that if properly structured they are effective in promoting the recognition of the limits of majoritarianism.

Management Control Shaping Dialogues: Attaching Differences and Reducing the Scope of Dialogs and Pluralism

ABSTRACTIn this article, we study how management control shapes dialogs among actors with different perspectives on the development of infrastructure in Sweden; that is, situations and events where management control “enters” dialogs and influences them. Building on agonistic pluralism and conducting a qualitative study, we identify two roles that management control has in shaping dialogs. One is that management controls attach differences to the dialog, and the other is that management reduces the scope of the dialog. These themes also highlight facilitating and shutting down pluralism and ideas of public value. This study contributes to the previous research that has called for taking pluralism seriously and exploring the role of management control in relation to public values, pluralism, and dialogs. This article provides an understanding of two roles that management control has in shaping dialogs: How ideas of different public values are facilitated and shut down, and how management control contributes to facilitating and shutting down pluralism.

Enhancing public dialogue about inclusion in school education: a citizens’ panel pilot

IntroductionThis paper reports on a small-scale Citizens’ Panel pilot project using deliberative democratic methods to produce policy ideas about inclusion in school education of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEN/D) in England. The project had two aims: (i) to obtain information about modifying a Citizens’ Panel process to enhance the effective participation of young people with SEN/D; and (ii) to generate more nuanced, grounded and integrated policy ideas about inclusion than can be found in recent English school education policy.MethodsThe Citizens’ Panel was a two phase deliberative process. Phase 1 involved working with six young people with SEN/D and their parents/carers to shape the Citizens’ Panel agenda, and to obtain information about how they could participate and communicate their perspectives during the events. Phase 2 involved the delivery of the Citizens’ Panel itself, which comprised 28 people: the six young people from phase 1, plus four young people without SEN/D, 13 parents/carers, and five education professionals.ResultsThe process evaluation revealed the need for and impact of meticulous planning using a differentiated and strengths-based approach to design. While participants reported that taking part in the Citizens’ Panel was overall, a positive and worthwhile experience, the differentiated approach involved trade-offs that affected the experiences of some participants without SEN/D, though not detrimentally. The panel produced distinctive ideas about more inclusive schools, where almost all of the themes were about general school changes for everyone. Most general themes involved some specific SEN/D aspects, with only one theme being SEN/D specific. This paper illustrates how these ideas are more nuanced, grounded and integrated than those in current national policy.DiscussionThis paper provides evidence of how deliberative approaches can be used within and between schools, groups of schools (e.g., multi academy trusts), local networks (including local authorities), as well as at the national level. Lessons drawn show how deliberative methods used by advocacy groups, protest movements and non-governmental organisations in support of more transformational change can be developed in ways that enable young people with SEN/D to participate and have their voices heard.

Exploring UK-wide public perceptions of the 'public good' use of data for research and statistics

In the UK, access to sensitive public data for research or statistics must serve the public good. These uses of data underpin the creation of better evidence for decision-making, however, decisions about what public good means rarely involve the public. We carried out a UK-wide public dialogue to better understand public perceptions of ‘public good’ use of sensitive data for research and statistics within a UK context. This included deliberative in-person and online workshops with 68 members of the general public. 24 hours of deliberative discussions were analysed and distilled into five main findings, which demonstrate that participants want the public to have a say in how the public good is defined in the context of decision-making on accessing sensitive data for research or statistics. The participants strongly expressed that the use of data for research or statistics should address inequalities in society and minimise harms; both of which could be partly achieved through meaningful public engagement. Participants also suggested that they would like to see more communication around the benefits of the use of data for research and statistics. Finally, they were broadly supportive of more data sharing under best practice safeguards, over and above existing legal frameworks. Insights from deliberative discussions with members of the public on their perceptions of public good use and access of sensitive data is reciprocally beneficial. It demonstrates trustworthiness to the public by meaningfully involving them in decisions about their data and ensures organisations can maximise the public benefit of their work.

Establishing a linked administrative data sampling frame to recruit families into a new UK-wide birth cohort study: findings from the Early Life Cohort Feasibility (ELC-FS) Study

Objective and ApproachFunded by the Economic and Social Research Council (2021-2024), a core aim of the ELC-FS was to establish a sampling frame by linking birth registrations and maternity records in the four UK nations (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) to facilitate recruitment of ~2000 families into a new birth cohort study. An opt-out recruitment approach was essential. Widespread public dialogue work was undertaken to glean the attitudes and perspectives of stakeholders including data controllers, data users, and parents of young children, as to the acceptability of this recruitment model. ResultsAchieving the sampling frame required nation-specific approaches due to differences in existing legislation governing secondary use of administrative data. Complex and protracted negotiations with data controller approval panels were necessary. Public dialogue work revealed that stakeholders were: (i) excited by the prospect of a new UK-wide birth cohort study to provide invaluable insights into the lives of a new generation; and (ii) broadly accepting of the proposed use of administrative data for generating a sampling frame, particularly in terms of ensuring that the ELC-FS study has diverse and inclusive representation of family life in the UK today. ConclusionsELC-FS fieldwork will be completed by mid-2024. Preliminary analyses to be presented at the conference will assess the suitability of the sampling frame for achieving the target ELC-FS sample. ImplicationsWith careful engagement with stakeholders at a national level, access to linked administrative data as a sampling frame for a UK-wide birth cohort study is achievable, but not straightforward.

Review of the Paradigm on the Role of Print Media in Influencing Public Health

This paper explores important issues related to media research in the context of public health debates and emphasises the requirement of a research plan including media production based on political sciences. Consensus is that via topic selection and presentation, the media significantly impacts public health dialogues and influences public opinions. Often reflecting the interests of strong stakeholders, the way the media presents health challenges, their causes, and solutions greatly influences public health debate. But modern studies often overlook the complex processes of media production necessary for knowledge of how political economics, power, and culture impact these debates. Media production is not just the consequence of linked networks, occupational practices, technology, and institutional contexts reflecting ideological convictions; it is also the output of newsrooms, revealed by a thorough study of media production. Examining non-communicative diseases (NCDs), a major worldwide health concern affected by unsustainable commodity sectors, this viewpoint is very vital. Public health studies have not yet completely revealed the media tactics used by businesses pushing negative items such alcohol, tobacco, and processed foods. Underexplored is the impact of these sectors on public health policy discussions mediated via media coverage.

Scholars as political influencers: celebrity, social media and political movements in Thailand

ABSTRACT The early twenty-first century witnessed a significant surge in democratisation movements against unjust dictatorships worldwide. In Thailand, political protests across the nation have captured considerable attention in recent years, primarily led by students and young people advocating for democratic reforms, with support from scholars and professionals. Despite this, studies of Thai politics have largely overlooked the role played by Thai scholar celebrities. While some critics have examined the rise of influencers in the online era, few have contextualised them within the political sphere. This article aims to address these gaps by elucidating the concept of celebrity culture within the political arena. The paper comprises three main sections. The first section delves into the notion of celebrity, celebrity culture, and, more specifically, scholar celebrities. Following this, a concise overview of the Thai socio-political landscape is provided, with particular emphasis on the ongoing political conflict dating back to 2006. The third and final section scrutinises Thai scholars as political influencers, exploring their relationship with and contribution to the Thai political movement. Additionally, it investigates the distinctive characteristics of these social media political influencers compared to traditional media influencers, particularly regarding their interactions with their fan bases. Contrary to prevailing beliefs regarding the negative ramifications of celebrity and fame, this study posits that scholar celebrities, irrespective of public agreement or dissent, serve to spotlight specific issues and instigate public discourse or national dialogue, thereby conferring a vital advantage to political movements.

Does the Media’s Partisanship Influence News Coverage on Artificial Intelligence Issues? Media Coverage Analysis on Artificial Intelligence Issues

This study aims to analyze news coverage on artificial intelligence (AI) issues and highlight the characteristics and differences in reporting based on media partisanship. By examining AI-related news in the South Korean media, this study reveals how conservative and progressive outlets frame the issue differently. The analysis found that conservative media coverage predominantly focuses on positive aspects, emphasizing development value frames such as the benefits and societal progress brought by AI. In contrast, progressive media often highlight crisis value frames, focusing on issues like side effects, ethical concerns, and legislation surrounding AI. These partisan differences reflect fundamental societal priorities and influence public discourse and policy agendas. Understanding media framing is crucial for fostering informed public dialogue on the societal significance of AI and promoting evidence-based decision-making. By recognizing partisan biases and critically evaluating media coverage, citizens can engage in constructive discourse beyond ideological divides. This study underscores the role of the media in promoting interdisciplinary discussions about the future trajectory of AI and in preparing society for its impacts. Ultimately, evidence-based public discourse is essential for shaping responsible AI policies and mitigating potential risks in the digital age.

Symbols of Resistance and Transformation in Nigerian Collage Art

This paper explores the dynamic role of collage art in Nigerian cultural and political discourse, focusing on how artists employ various symbols and motifs to navigate and critique post-colonial themes. By analyzing artworks that integrate both traditional and contemporary materials, the study highlights how these pieces reflect and influence perceptions of cultural identity, resistance, transformation, and societal progress. Through detailed examinations of specific artworks, the paper demonstrates how Nigerian collage artists articulate issues of colonial legacy, identity reaffirmation, and socio-political challenges. Furthermore, it discusses the broader cultural impact of these artworks, showing how they foster public dialogue and inspire community actions that address ongoing post-colonial challenges. This study underscores the power of visual art as a medium for social reflection and change, contributing significantly to both academic and cultural discussions about post-colonialism in Nigeria.

WITHDRAWN: How to behave in an interview with the media

Engaging with the media is a critical skill for professionals at any career stage, enabling them to contribute to public dialogue on significant issues. This article emphasizes the importance of the preparation and skill development for media interactions, whether proactive or reactive. Detailed guidance is provided on crafting effective press releases. Key preparatory steps for reactive interviews include understanding the journalist's intent and setting clear boundaries. The article underscores the necessity of honing a single, compelling message and offers strategies for effective communication during interviews, including the ABC technique (Acknowledge, Bridge, Communicate). Recommendations for post-interview follow-up and self-reflection are provided to enhance future media engagements. The article serves as a guide for professionals aiming to communicate their expertise and viewpoints effectively through various media channels.

Challenges in the Amazon Forest: an Integrative Analysis of the Social, Environmental and Economic Aspects of the Environmental Crisis

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the challenges of the Amazon forest in a three-dimensional way, evaluating the social, environmental and economic aspects in the face of the environmental crisis and aiming at commitment to future generations. Theoretical Framework: The conceptualization of the environmental crisis and the study of the economic, social and environmental dimensions stand out as the basis of the research, providing an interesting foundation for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: Integrative, descriptive study with a qualitative approach anchored in a narrative review that allowed us to converge on interpretative understanding and results regarding the social, environmental and economic aspects of the environmental crisis that is plaguing the Amazon Forest. Results and Discussion: The need to implement effective public policies, sustainable practices and dialogue between public authorities, civil society, the private sector and the community in order to preserve and develop in a sustainable way. The community of Sarayaku stands out, an example of resilience amid deforestation in the Amazon. Research Implications: Reflections involving the adverse effects arising from the contrast between deforestation and economic development in the Amazon forest. Originality/Value: The importance of a collaborative and comprehensive approach is defended, to recognize and value the complexities and interconnections of the challenges faced by the Amazon region in order to achieve better levels of environmental preservation and sustainable development as paths to protect future generations.

An interview with Peter Rugg-Gunn.

Peter Rugg-Gunn is a Group Leader and Head of Public Engagement at the Babraham Institute in Cambridge, UK, interested in the epigenome during early human development. Peter is scientific lead of the Human Developmental Biology Initiative (HDBI), a member of the Scientific and Clinical Advances Advisory Committee of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), and is active in UK and international efforts to establish guidance in stem cell-based embryo models. We spoke to Peter about his career path, his interest in public dialogue and his role as an Editor for Development.

Demokratisasi dan Media Massa di Indonesia

This research analyzes the role of mass media in the democratization process in Indonesia after the fall of the New Order in 1998. Using a literature study method, this research evaluates the role of mass media in disseminating information, facilitating public dialogue, and strengthening government accountability. Political reforms have allowed the media to report important issues more freely, contributing to government transparency and accountability. The mass media also serves as a platform for public discussion, helping the public understand national issues and become more critical voters. However, the mass media faces significant challenges, including intense competition among media channels, dependence on political and economic interests, and the risk of information manipulation. The research results show that despite these challenges, the mass media remains a vital element in promoting democratization in Indonesia by increasing public participation and political transparency. Steps to strengthen media integrity and professionalism, as well as media education for the public, are essential to ensure that the mass media can continue to play a role as a pillar of a healthy and sustainable democracy.