Using pragmatism to overcome the perils of monetary valuation: Applying Deliberative Q-method to understand the value of stream ecosystems in Amman, Jordan
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Date
2020-04-16
Authors
Peck, Megan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Waterloo
Abstract
Existing ecosystem service literature is predominated by valuation studies that narrowly
ascribe to either positivist or constructionist worldviews; each subject to inherent
limitations that make their operationalization in practice limited. Valuation studies are
lacking the pragmatism required to adequately integrate the complexity of ecosystem
service values into decision-making, specifically as it pertains to sociocultural values,
which do not easily translate into measurable metrics. Accordingly, this thesis aims to
increase the validity and credibility of sociocultural valuation studies, both theoretically
and empirically. Based on a literature review, valuation studies are lacking the concurrent
embodiment of three critical themes: 1) deliberation; 2) local ecological knowledge; and
3) explicit trade-off mechanisms. Accordingly, this manuscript describes the theoretical
framework that was developed, which simultaneously integrates these themes, and
transcends their epistemological origins. To operationalize the theoretical framework,
conventional Q-method was adapted into a deliberative process, by combining it with
focus group procedures. This combined method was empirically tested in Amman, Jordan
by analyzing how experts value urban water features amid severe water scarcity. The
results revealed two juxtaposing opinions regarding the conception of urban surface
waters in Amman. The predominant perspective is forward-thinking; valuing urban water
features for their sociocultural values, supporting the application of nature-based
solutions. The second perspective is backwards thinking; preoccupied with ecosystem
disservices and unsustainable water management solutions. Accordingly, Amman and
other developing metropolises that face rapid urbanization and climate change would
benefit from greater international knowledge exchange, disseminating the benefits of
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local nature-based solutions, specifically stream daylighting. The Deliberative Q-method
produces easily interpretable results used by decision-makers to identify management
priorities and improve the likelihood of policy success by reducing management
inefficiencies and stakeholder conflict. The Deliberative Q-method is adaptable for a
variety of research topics, within urban planning and beyond, which seek to understand
social preferences amid complex urban realities and the diverse values of its citizens.
Description
Keywords
ecosystem services, local ecological knowledge, public engagement, planning epistemologies, social learning, mixed methods, sociocultural valuation