Nudge, Nudge, Think, Think: Experimenting with Ways to Change Citizen Behaviour

Governments can persuade citizens to act socially beneficial ways by using light touch interventions or nudges, or by using a think strategy that calls on citizens to decide their own priorities as part of a process of civic and democratic renewal. This second edition of the book provides evidence from experiments to show how these techniques work in practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Governments have been exploring various strategies to persuade their citizens to act in socially beneficial ways. One approach that has gained attention in recent years is known as "nudge," which refers to subtle interventions designed to influence people's behavior without imposing significant restrictions or mandates. The concept of nudges was proposed by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein in their highly influential book "Nudge" (2008). While acknowledging the effectiveness of nudges, this book argues that an alternative approach is also necessary: a "think" strategy that encourages citizens to decide their own priorities as part of a process of civic and democratic renewal.

The book explores these divergent approaches in theory and provides evidence from a number of experiments to demonstrate how nudge or think techniques can be effective in practice. It emphasizes the importance of designing interventions that are tailored to individual preferences, motivations, and contexts, and that take into account the psychological and social factors that influence behavior.

One of the key insights of the book is that nudges can be effective in promoting a wide range of social outcomes, including healthy eating, exercise, savings, and environmental sustainability. By using small, positive incentives or cues, governments can encourage people to make choices that align with their values and goals. For example, providing healthier food options in school cafeterias or placing fruit baskets in office break rooms can nudge people towards making healthier eating choices. Similarly, offering financial incentives or tax breaks for individuals who invest in renewable energy or reduce their carbon footprint can encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices.

However, the book also recognizes that nudges are not a panacea and that they may not be effective in all situations. For example, individuals with low cognitive abilities or limited access to information may be less susceptible to nudges. Additionally, some interventions may have unintended consequences or may be perceived as intrusive or coercive by some individuals.

To address these challenges, the book proposes a "think" strategy that encourages citizens to engage in a process of self-reflection and decision-making. This strategy involves providing individuals with information and resources to help them understand their options and make informed choices. It also involves promoting civic engagement and participation, such as through community-based initiatives or public debates, to ensure that individuals have a voice in shaping public policy.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of public policy and governance. By exploring the effectiveness of nudges and think strategies, it offers policymakers and practitioners a range of tools and approaches to promote social welfare and democratic renewal. While recognizing the limitations of nudges, it emphasizes the importance of designing interventions that are tailored to individual preferences, motivations, and contexts, and that take into account the psychological and social factors that influence behavior.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526140555