LIST OF WORKSHOPS

Co-chairs:

Raul Pacheco-Vega, FLACSO Mexico

Fausto Amador-Cid, FLACSO Mexico

Camila Sanchez-Sandoval, FLACSO Mexico

1.     Research Question

This workshop seeks to examine the underlying challenges of using wicked problems in public policy scholarship. What do we know about wickedness, wicked problems and the use of wicked problems scholarship in policy studies? What is left to study? Which potential avenues for further research do we have?

We propose examining this research question through four different avenues of inquiry:

a)     How do we define wicked problems? Which parameters, characteristics, and elements define wicked, wickedness and a wicked problem?

b)     What types of methods can be used to understand wicked problems from a public policy perspective? How can we merge qualitative, quantitative, spatial, relational and other types of research methods to better understand wicked problems?

c)     Which ethical challenges exist when examining public policy issues through the wicked problems framework?

d)     How does uncertainty affect wicked-problem-solving across different policy contexts?

2.     Context

Public policy issues can always be framed through a wicked problems framework. However, despite recent efforts to make this scholarship more visible and relevant (Head, 2019, 2023; Peters, 2017; Peters & Tarpey, 2019), global challenges such as the COVID19 pandemic, the increase in violence against women, the growth in applications of large scale language models (LLMs, also known as artificial intelligence) have made it clear that policy issues can definitely be wicked problems. It is in this context that we seek to advance literature and make substantive contributions to the wicked problems literature.

3.     State of the Art

Wicked problems are complex, multifaceted, intractable and often ill-formulated (Crowley & Head, 2017; Head, 2022). Scholarship around the world has evolved over the past 60 years to use the conceptual lens of wicked problems to examine challenging issues of urban planning, sustainable development, water governance, human development and social justice. Though the term “wicked problems” emerged from the urban and regional planning literature (Peters, 2017), it has become widely used across multiple disciplines, sub-fields and areas of study (Clark et al., 2022; Hannigan & Coffey, 2011; Herrington & Horndeski, 2023; Smith et al., 2000). Though there are fair and substantive critiques of the concept (Termeer et al., 2019), there are also important and relevant avenues to expand the current body of academic works on wicked problems in public policy, building on these critiques (Peters, 2017; Peters & Tarpey, 2019). Both from an area issues perspective as well as a disciplinary viewpoint, there are clearly multiple spaces where one could contribute to our understanding of the definitional challenges of wicked problems in public policy.

One of the biggest challenges facing scholarly literature on wicked problems is definitional. Peters makes three core assertions about this body of scholarly works: firstly, that relatively few problems facing governments are actually wicked in the way we define wicked problems. Secondly, that many ordinary policy problems could also be characterized as wicked, And thirdly, that wicked problems as a theoretical construct has been converted from an explanatory framework to a normative approach to policy design (Peters, 2017).

While there are multiple angles of analysis for wicked problems, four main avenues emerge from a cursory literature review. Firstly, the definitional problems that emerge from trying to discern which public affairs can or cannot be framed as wicked problems (Alford & Head, 2017; Head, 2022; Peters & Tarpey, 2019; Termeer et al., 2019). There is a very strong variation in the types of issues that can be examined through wicked problems scholarship, from homelessness (Clark et al., 2022) to wellbeing (Bache et al., 2016) to urban stream restoration (Herrington & Horndeski, 2023) to air pollution  sustainable development and land title regularization (Pipkin, 2023). There is still substantive space for additional efforts to define wicked problems and advance scholarship on wickedness in public policy.

Secondly, there are substantial methodological challenges that come with attempting to understand and solve wicked problems. A clear gap in the literature is a systematic examination of different methodologies that can be used to better understand public policy issues through the wicked problems framing. Though there is substantial work on the definitional elements that make a public policy issue a wicked problem (Alford & Head, 2017; Crowley & Head, 2017; Head, 2019; Lönngren & van Poeck, 2021; Turnbull & Hoppe, 2019), there is less work on applications of qualitative, quantitative, social network analysis, spatial analysis to the study of wicked problems. Certainly, understanding policy issues requires specific skill sets and methodological tools. For example, to understand mental health as a wicked problem (Pipkin, 2023) we would need ethnographic approaches. The same could be said of homelessness (Clark et al., 2022).  Studying land titles’ regularization (Pipkin, 2023) most certainly would necessitate spatial analysis and geographical information systems.

Thirdly, there is a need for additional work on the ethical implications of examining public policy issues through a wicked problems framework (Wexler, 2009). Given the normative nature of the wicked problems literature, we need to exercise caution when examining policy challenges through this theoretical lens, as it is likely that we may fall into a blind spot and make the problem even more wicked than it was before our analysis. The entire notion of wicked problems implies that there is a certain “wickedness” that needs to be tamed. One important challenge is the ethical decision to choose certain policy options over others when addressing a wicked problem (Wexler, 2009). The scholarly literature on ethics in wicked problems has therefore several potential avenues for additional research.

Fourthly, there is substantial uncertainty within the specific wicked problem we might be attempting to address. We may frequently find scholarly research papers that address a policy issue attempting to tackle one of its causes without actually addressing all of them. These uncertainties can be associated with the specific policy issue (Kirschke & Kosow, 2022), or with the types of stakeholders that are involved in decision-making (Esposito & Terlizzi, 2023; Hudon & Floricel, 2023) or the specific processes used to make decisions around a specific wicked problem (Bache et al., 2016; Kirschke & Kosow, 2022). Given that wicked problems are also political (McConnell, 2018), there is ample opportunity for further investigation of the politics of uncertainty in wicked problems scholarship.

Wicked problems are substantially different in root causes, policy instruments that can be designed and implemented, temporal horizons and target populations.  While this workshop proposes an examination of wicked problems in public policy scholarly literature and case studies in four specific areas, it is clear that there are other potential avenues worthy of research that can be examined. We welcome papers that examine specific case studies, a broader range of public policy areas, or take a comparative perspective.

4.     Hypotheses

This workshop does not follow a hypothesis-testing strategy. We examine research questions as posited above.

5.     Papers

We have abstracts for at least 5 papers already prepared, and we will be seeking additional submissions. We welcome theoretical, empirical and methodological papers and will organize them accordingly.

6.     Agenda

The workshop will take place over 3 days. Depending on the number of participants and papers, we will devote 1-1.5 up to 2 days to presenting and discussing the papers in a traditional roundtable (chair, presenters, discussant) format. We then will devote the remainder of the workshop (1-1.5 days) to discuss a publication strategy and offer some time for participants to edit their papers for publication. We will explore research questions along the four avenues indicated and produce four sets of papers that can be then published in a series of special issues.

7.     Paper titles and authors (to be updated with additional participants emerging from the call for participants)

Raul Pacheco-Vega (FLACSO Mexico) “Elder Care Policy as a Wicked Problem: An Intersectional Approach to Understanding Policies for Older Persons”.

Fausto Amador-Cid (FLACSO Mexico) “Methods for Studying Wicked Public Policy Problems in the Context of Homelessness: A Case Study in Mexico”

Camila Sanchez-Sandoval (FLACSO Mexico) “Religious Freedom Expansion as a Wicked Problem: A Comparative Public Policy Approach”

Jeraldine del Cid and Gloria del Castillo (FLACSO Mexico) Problem Definition in the Agenda-Setting Process for the Decriminalization of Abortion in Central America: A Very Wicked Problem

Two additional authors have been identified:

Ulises Flores Llanos

Guillaume Fontaine

8.     Bibliography

Alford, J., & Head, B. W. (2017). Wicked and less wicked problems: A typology and a contingency framework. Policy and Society, 36(3), 397–413. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2017.1361634

Bache, I., Reardon, L., & Anand, P. (2016). Wellbeing as a Wicked Problem: Navigating the Arguments for the Role of Government. Journal of Happiness Studies, 17(3), 893–912. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-015-9623-y

Clark, M., Cornes, M., Whiteford, M., Aldridge, R., Biswell, E., Byng, R., Foster, G., Fuller, J. S., Hayward, A., Hewett, N., Kilminster, A., Manthorpe, J., Neale, J., & Tinelli, M. (2022). Homelessness and integrated care: an application of integrated care knowledge to understanding services for wicked issues. Journal of Integrated Care, 30(1), 3–19. https://doi.org/10.1108/JICA-03-2021-0012

Crowley, K., & Head, B. W. (2017). The enduring challenge of ‘wicked problems’: revisiting Rittel and Webber. Policy Sciences, 50(4), 539–547. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11077-017-9302-4

Esposito, G., & Terlizzi, A. (2023). Governing wickedness in megaprojects: discursive and institutional perspectives. Policy and Society, 42(2), 131–147. https://doi.org/10.1093/polsoc/puad002

Hannigan, B., & Coffey, M. (2011). Where the wicked problems are: The case of mental health. Health Policy, 101(3), 220–227. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthpol.2010.11.002

Head, B. W. (2019). Forty years of wicked problems literature: forging closer links to policy studies. Policy and Society, 38(2), 180–197. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2018.1488797

Head, B. W. (2022). Wicked Problems in Public Policy: Understanding and Responding to Complex Challenges. Palgrave Macmillan.

Head, B. W. (2023). Wicked Problems in Public Policy. Encyclopedia of Public Policy, 3(2), 101–108. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-90434-0_43-1

Herrington, C. S., & Horndeski, K. (2023). Is urban stream restoration really a wicked problem? Urban Ecosystems, 26(2), 479–491. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-022-01307-7

Hudon, P.-A., & Floricel, S. (2023). The development of large public infrastructure projects: integrating policy and project studies models. Policy and Society, 42(2), 148–163. https://doi.org/10.1093/polsoc/puad004

Kirschke, S., & Kosow, H. (2022). Designing policy mixes for emerging wicked problems. The case of pharmaceutical residues in freshwaters. Journal of Environmental Policy and Planning, 24(5), 486–497. https://doi.org/10.1080/1523908X.2021.1960808

Lönngren, J., & van Poeck, K. (2021). Wicked problems: a mapping review of the literature. International Journal of Sustainable Development and World Ecology, 28(6), 481–502. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504509.2020.1859415

McConnell, A. (2018). Rethinking wicked problems as political problems and policy problems. Policy and Politics, 46(1), 165–180. https://doi.org/10.1332/030557317X15072085902640

Peters, B. G. (2017). What is so wicked about wicked problems? A conceptual analysis and a research program. Policy and Society, 36(3), 385–396. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2017.1361633

Peters, B. G., & Tarpey, M. (2019). Are wicked problems really so wicked? Perceptions of policy problems. Policy and Society, 38(2), 218–236. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2019.1626595

Pipkin, S. (2023). Dissolving “Wicked” Problems: Beyond Institutionalist and Participatory Approaches to Land Title Regularization. Journal of Planning Education and Research, 43(1), 94–105. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X19856066

Smith, P. C., Nutley, S. M., & Davies, H. T. O. (2000). Urban policy: addressing wicked problems. What Works?: Evidence-Based Policy and Practice in Public Services, 383.

Termeer, C. J. A. M., Dewulf, A., & Biesbroek, R. (2019). A critical assessment of the wicked problem concept: relevance and usefulness for policy science and practice. Policy and Society, 38(2), 167–179. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2019.1617971

Turnbull, N., & Hoppe, R. (2019). Problematizing ‘wickedness’: a critique of the wicked problems concept, from philosophy to practice. Policy and Society, 38(2), 315–337. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2018.1488796

Wexler, M. N. (2009). Exploring the moral dimension of wicked problems. International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, 29, 531–542. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443330910986306

Call for Papers: Exploring Public Policy Issues as Wicked Problems: Methods, Ethics, Definitions, and Uncertainties

Over the past 50 years, the concept of "wicked problems" has gained prominence in various fields, encompassing complex, multifaceted issues that resist easy resolution. In this workshop we invite scholars, practitioners, and researchers in the areas of public policy and public administration to engage in a comprehensive exploration of wicked problems from multiple perspectives. We seek contributions that delve into four key dimensions of wicked problems: methods for their study, the ethical implications they pose, the challenges inherent in defining them, and the uncertainties that surround their understanding.

Our proposed workshop has four main tracks or avenues of research inquiry, as outlined below.

1.     The Challenges of Defining Wicked Problems:

Defining wicked problems is an inherently complex task. This track seeks contributions that scrutinize the process of identifying and framing wicked problems, as well as the nuances that arise when attempting to establish clear boundaries and parameters. We encourage submissions that analyze the contextual, cultural, and epistemological factors that shape the definitions of wicked problems and influence the strategies employed to address them.

2.     Methods to Study Wicked Problems:

This track invites submissions that elucidate innovative approaches, tools, and methodologies for effectively analyzing and tackling wicked problems. We welcome empirical studies, case analyses, and theoretical frameworks that demonstrate novel ways to dissect and address the intricate nature of these challenges. Submissions may encompass quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods approaches that shed light on the underlying structures, dynamics, and potential solutions of wicked problems.

3.     The Ethics of Wicked Problems:

This track aims to foster discussions on the moral and ethical considerations associated with wicked problems. We invite papers that critically examine the ethical dimensions of decision-making, policy formulation, and implementation strategies in the context of wicked problems. Submissions may explore issues such as distributive justice, stakeholder engagement, and the ethical responsibilities of individuals, organizations, and societies in confronting these complex challenges.

4.     The Uncertainties Associated with Wicked Problems:

Uncertainty is an inherent feature of wicked problems, encompassing a range of ambiguities, unpredictabilities, and unforeseeable consequences. This track welcomes papers that delve into the various dimensions of uncertainty in the context of wicked problems, including but not limited to modeling approaches, scenario planning, and decision-making under conditions of limited information.

Submission Guidelines:

Abstract submissions should be no more than 300 words and must clearly state the research questions, methodology, and key findings. If the paper is theoretical, then please state how your paper will advance the wicked problems scholarly literature. If your paper is methodological, please make clear which methods will be examined or tested. If the proposed paper is empirical, please state clearly the type of case study or policy area under analysis. Full papers should be no more than 8,000 words, including references and appendices. We will consider all formats for bibliography but prefer them formatted in APA style.

All submissions will be considered for one or more special issues on wicked problems in public policy and as such, will undergo a double-blinded peer-review process.

Important Dates:

Abstract Submission Deadline: January 31st, 2024

Notification of Acceptance: February 16th, 2024

Full Paper Submission Deadline: May 30th, 2024

Conference Dates: June 26th-28th, 2024

We look forward to receiving your contributions and fostering a dynamic dialogue on wicked problems and their multifaceted dimensions.

For inquiries, please contact Dr. Raul Pacheco-Vega (raul.pacheco-vega@flacso.edu.mx)

Exploring Public Policy Issues as Wicked Problems: Definitions, Methods, Ethics, and Uncertainties in Decision-Making

Abstract

Public policy problems can be considered wicked problems if they are very complex, multifaceted, lacking a clear way of understanding of the phenomena and straightforward solutions (Head, 2022; Peters, 2017). Scholarship on wicked problems in public policy became quite popular in the early 2000s and has recently regained interest. In this workshop, we propose a fresh look on the value of wicked problems’ theoretical underpinnings and their value in understanding complex public policy problems.

Wicked problems are multifaceted, intractable and complex issues. Many public policy issues require intersectional, multidisciplinary and collaborative approaches to problem-solving. Framing these challenging issues as wicked problems enables scholars to seek a holistic approach to understanding root causes and potential solutions’ spaces. This workshop explores research questions around 4 themes: approaches to defining wicked problems, the ethics of wicked problems research, quantitative and qualitative methods to study wicked problems, and the role of uncertainty in managing wicked problems.

We seek papers that answer research questions seeking to explain the emergence of wicked problems in public policy, the challenges of defining a wicked problem, the different methodological approaches that can be used to better understand wicked problems, and the ethics of tackling wicked problems using public policy theoretical and empirical tools. We welcome theoretical papers addressing any of the four avenues of research we indicate. We also welcome empirical case studies that can offer lessons learned from applying the analytical lenses of wicked problems.

Bibliography:

Head, B. W. (2022). Wicked Problems in Public Policy: Understanding and Responding to Complex Challenges. Palgrave Macmillan.

Peters, B. G. (2017). What is so wicked about wicked problems? A conceptual analysis and a research program. Policy and Society, 36(3), 385–396. https://doi.org/10.1080/14494035.2017.1361633

Dr. Raul Pacheco-Vega is a Professor in the Methods Lab of the Latin American Faculty for Social Sciences (Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, FLACSO) Sede México. He is a specialist in comparative public policy and focuses on North American environmental politics, primarily sanitation and water governance, solid waste management, neoinstitutional theory, transnational environmental social movements and experimental methods in public policy. He is a member of the Mexican National Researchers’ System (SNI), and holds the distinction of National Researcher Level 1.

Fausto Amador-Cid is a Doctoral Student at the Latin American Faculty for Social Sciences (FLACSO) Mexico. His primary research interests lie in the realm of public policy and vulnerable populations. His main research focus is Policy Design and Implementation, Behavioural Public Policy, Experimental Methods, Mixed Methods, Street-level Bureaucracy, and Homelessness. Fausto is interested in the complex dynamics of vulnerable communities and their experiences within policy frameworks. He is keenly interested in nuanced understandings of the intricate relationships between governance structures, social identities, and marginalized populations.

Camila Andrea Sánchez Sandoval has an M.A in sociology from the Universidad Iberoamericana and is a doctoral candidate in social sciences with a mention in political science at FLACSO Mexico. Her research interests have been religious political parties, expansion of religious freedom and public policies. Camila has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in religious freedom, and is a specialist in qualitative methods. She’s also conducted several collaborative applied projects.