3.4 Social science methods

Social-psychological approaches aim to characterize and measure the values people hold, express, and advocate with respect to changes in ecological states or their personal and social consequences.

These methods elicit value-relevant perceptions and judgments, typically expressed as choices, rankings, or ratings among presented sets of alternative ecosystems protection policies and may include comparisons with potentially competing social and economic goals.

Individuals making these judgments may respond on their own behalf or on behalf of others. The basis for judgments can be changes in individual well-being or in civic, ethical, or moral obligations.