Issues Mapping: A problem structuring method for addressing science and technology conflicts

摘要: There are new opportunities for the application of problem structuring methods to address science and technology risk conflicts through stakeholder dialogue. Most previous approaches addressing have been developed from a traditional communication perspective, which tends construct engagement between stakeholders based on assumption that scientists evaluate technologies using facts, lay participants do so their values. 'Understanding facts' is generally privileged, value framings experts often remain unexposed, perspectives marginalized. When this happens, methodologies fail achieve authentic dialogue can exacerbate conflict. This paper introduces 'Issues Mapping', method enables by visual modelling techniques clarify issues develop mutual understanding stakeholders. A case study first Issues Mapping presented, engaged community protagonists in genetic engineering debate New Zealand. Participant researcher evaluations suggest helped break down stereotypes both environmental activists; increased understanding; reduced conflict; identified common ground; started building trust; supported emergence policy options all room could live with. The ends with some reflections priorities further research.