Conceptualizing Sustainability: Simulating Concrete Possibilities in an Imperfect World

Abstract

This paper uses a cultural model approach to interpret and analyse the impact of an interactive computer simulation tool (GB-Quest) on the possibility of fostering dialogue about sustainability in southwestern British Columbia, Canada. We define cultural models theory, compare cultural models to mental models and illustrate some basic features of cultural models. We then describe the research process in which participants engaged in conversation, guided and facilitated by GB-Quest, about sustainability. Findings suggest that the use of cultural models frameworks reinforces participants' understanding of sustainability. In reflecting on their prior models of sustainability, we argue that study participants can elucidate how cognitive conceptual resources reflect publicly shared knowledge (Turner, 2004).

Notes

1. Designing GB-Quest involved the participation of key stakeholders, who were invited to sector-based workshops (e.g. agriculture, transportation) to create possible scenarios, complete with the key characteristics and constraints (VanWynsberghe et al., 2003). These key informants represented relevant government ministries, non-governmental organizations, academic disciplines, and industry. Like the rest of the workshops, the agricultural sector discussed previous research and shared objectives and innovative practices in order to detail various scenarios. One memorable scenario included an Agriculture Canada representative's description of the region's available agricultural land being converted into residential and commercial properties with greenhouses on the roof. These ‘scenarios’ were subsequently tested for their plausibility and feasibility and then, if possible, modelled into GB-Quest (VanWynsberghe et al., 2003).