Beyond Authority: Enhancing Collective Problem-Solving in Online Deliberation
Abstract
Collective problem-solving is a cornerstone of collaborative innovation, yet its potential in generating high-quality solutions is often hindered by premature convergence or deadlock, particularly in online deliberation. To facilitate the convergence of diverse perspectives into a solution, some form of centralization—such as mediators or a panel that screens participants or selects among proposed solutions—is often used. However, such exercise of central authority compromises the participatory ethos of deliberation. We develop a minimally invasive intervention that improves deliberation quality and allows participants to converge on solutions. Specifically, we introduce a Shared Attribute Space (SAS)—a set of attribute dimensions that allows participants to analyze and compare solution proposals. In two experiments using a custom-built online deliberation platform, we find that providing SAS enhances deliberation quality, improves the expected impact of proposals, and promotes their clustering within a convergent solution space. Our findings provide empirical evidence for an intervention that improves collective problem-solving in online deliberation without recourse to authority.
This seminar will take place in person in room T09-67. Alternatively, click here to join this seminar online via Teams.
Meeting ID: 391 554 223 366
Passcode: Z6Sw9gB7
Information
- Type
- Research Seminar
- Programme
- Logistics & Information Systems
- Date
- Thu. 15 May. 2025
- Time
- 12:00 - 13:00
- Location
- T09-67 or Teams
