“Heading for Extinction”: the representation of scientific knowledge in Extinction Rebellion's recruitment talks

Thierry, Aaron 2023. “Heading for Extinction”: the representation of scientific knowledge in Extinction Rebellion's recruitment talks. Frontiers in Communication 8 , 1237700. 10.3389/fcomm.2023.1237700

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Abstract

This study examines how the climate action group Extinction Rebellion represents scientific knowledge in the public presentations used to recruit new members. Using a combination of semi-structured interviews and recordings of the talks and comparing them across four versions, we examine how the talk developed and identify four distinct modes of science communication. This analysis also highlights that many factors shape the mode of science communication employed, with the outcome particularly influenced by the editors' concept of how to best motivate action, as well as changes in the wider communication environment and the evolution of the movement's strategic aims. We note the way in which the modes are expressions of “boundary work” seeking to either include or exclude scientific views the group perceives as either aligning with, or running counter to, their political goals.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Additional Information:	License information from Publisher: LICENSE 1: URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Publisher:	Frontiers Media
ISSN:	2297-900X
Funders:	ESRC
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	20 September 2023
Date of Acceptance:	7 August 2023
Last Modified:	21 Sep 2023 18:15
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/162619

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