Computational methods for the analysis of climate change communication: Towards an integrative and reflexive approach. (5th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schäfer, Mike S.; Hase, Valerie
• Is Part Of: Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Volume 14:Number 2(2023)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-11-05
• Subjects: big data -- climate change communication -- computational methods -- news media -- social media; Climatic changes -- Periodicals; Climatic changes; Periodicals; 363.7387405
• DOI: 10.1002/wcc.806
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-7780

Abstract

Abstract: Computational methods, in particular text‐as‐data or Natural Language Processing (NLP) approaches, have become popular to study climate change communication as a global and large‐scale phenomenon. Scholars have discussed opportunities and challenges of these methods for climate change communication, with some proponents and critics taking strong positions, either embracing the potential of computational methods or critically questioning their value. Mirroring developments in the broader social scientific debate, we aim to bring both sides together by proposing a reflexive, integrative approach for computational research on climate change communication: We reflect on strengths (e.g., making data big and small, nowcasting observations) and weaknesses (e.g., introducing empiricist epistemologies, ignoring biases) of computational approaches. Moreover, we also provide concrete and constructive guidance on when and how to integrate (or not integrate) these methods based on theoretical considerations . We thereby understand computational methods as part of an ever‐increasing, diverse toolbox for analyzing climate change communication. This article is categorized under: The Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Knowledge and Practice The Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge Abstract : Computational methods for the analysis of climate change communication.