The problem of our changing climate is entirely due to decisions made at the level of the individual, the organization, or the country. Consequently, many of the possible solutions to the rapidly worsening problem require an interdisciplinary approach, in which all areas of behavioural and social science are deployed in an integrated manner.
To illustrate, it is generally assumed that some form of "carbon pricing" is essential to induce consumers to emit carbon only when necessary. But to choose the correct form of carbon pricing requires an understanding not only of economics, but also the psychology of the consumers who will pay the prices, and a philosophical and sociological understanding of the societal effects of the wealth redistribution caused by the carbon pricing. To give another example, it is essential for behavioural scientists to understand what people believe about climate uncertainty, and how they value the future (both their own and that of their children) for us to create solutions that people will accept. And, indeed, if people are misinformed or have socially undesirable preferences, we may want to help them become informed or even to "nudge" their preferences. In short, behavioural and social scientists have a vital role to play in addressing the problem.
Warwick is at the forefront of research into behavioural science and climate policy, and for the 7th Annual WBS summer school we have invited some of our own researchers, as well as leading national and international figures, to teach us about climate and behavioural science.
As always, the summer school is designed to appeal to the widest range of participants. It will appeal to students, including undergraduate and PhD students, who are studying behavioural science and want to learn the wide range of links between behavioural science and climate change. In addition, we have designed our talks to be interesting to a general audience, and to managers and marketers in the public and private sector who seek to learn more about behavioural science, and about how to combat climate change.
The Summer School will take place at University of Warwick, United Kingdom. It will feature high level presentations by distinguished economists, psychologists, philosophers and behavioural scientists. The sessions will be interaction, and students and "profs" will have many opportunities to get to know one another and discuss ideas. This will be a great opportunity to learn and to network.
Deadline: 31st May 2019