2026/03/02 by Keith Hankins, Ryan Muldoon, David Wiens · 1 voice
Environmental Science · Psychology · #Behavioral Health and Interventions #Optimism, Hope, and Well-being #Sustainability and Climate Change Governance
paper · pdf · doi:10.1017/s0266267126100698
openalex publication_date 2026/03/02 · openalex created_date 2026/03/03 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22
Abstract We examine the “problem of social change”, focusing on whether efforts should be oriented toward long-term ideals or piecemeal improvements. We analyse the trade-off between these approaches: pursuing ideals may require short-term sacrifices, while incremental changes may hinder realizing an ideal. We introduce an analytical framework for structuring thought experiments that can provide traction on these issues, and present two implementations that provide baseline insights and motivate further research. We conclude with suggestions for extending our framework in ways that can yield insights that can guide our choice of orientation.