Deconstructing facts and frames in energy research: Maxims for evaluating contentious problems |
| |
| Affiliation: | 1. Business and Social Sciences, Center for Energy Technologies, Aarhus University, Birk Centerpark 15, DK-7400 Herning, Denmark;2. Science & Technology Policy Research Unit (SPRU), School of Business, Management, and Economics, University of Sussex, United Kingdom;3. School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology, DM Smith Building, 685 Cherry Street, Room 312, Atlanta, GA 30332-0345, USA;1. Technology and Innovation Management, DTU Management Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Diplomvej, Building 372, Room 213, Denmark;2. Innovation Fund Denmark, Denmark;1. ETH Zürich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland;2. Swiss Transmission System Operator, Swissgrid Ltd, 5080 Laufenburg, Switzerland;1. Centre for Applied Bioethics, Schools of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leics LE12 5RD, United Kingdom;2. Department of Food and Resource Economics, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 25, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark;3. Institute for Science & Society (ISS), School of Sociology & Social Policy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom;4. Center for Nanotechnology in Society (CNS–ASU), Arizona State University, Tempe, United States |
| |
| Abstract: | In this article, we argue that assumptions and values can play a combative, corrosive role in the generation of objective energy analysis. We then propose six maxims for energy analysts and researchers. Our maxim of information asks readers to keep up to date on trends in energy resources and technology. Our maxim of inclusivity asks readers to involve citizens and other public actors more in energy decisions. Our maxim of symmetry asks readers to keep their analysis of energy technologies centered always on both technology and society. Our maxim of reflexivity asks readers to be self-aware of one's assumptions. Our maxim of prudence asks readers to make energy decisions that are ethical or at least informed. Our maxim of agnosticism asks readers to look beyond a given energy technology to the services it provides and recognize that many systems can provide a desired service. We conclude that decisions in energy are justified by, if not predicated on, beliefs—beliefs which may or may not be supported by objective data, constantly blurring the line between fact, fiction, and frames. |
| |
| Keywords: | Energy analysis Energy and politics Energy studies research Resolution of energy problems |
| 本文献已被 ScienceDirect 等数据库收录！ |
|
