The hinterland of power : rethinking mediatised messy policy

Abstract

This thesis investigates the power dynamics influential in policy and major project development that has been subject to mediatisation. This power is identified and analysed through the Foucauldian notion of discourse. Specifically, the research undertaken focuses on two infrastructure case studies - both are rail transport projects in Sydney - one failed and the other is currently underway. The case studies are examples of 'messy' policy; policy that is complicated by a large number of competing stakeholder interests.The research consisted of interviews with experts, surveys and focus groups with members of the public, and a study of news media spanning a five-year period. The central finding is that there are a number of expert and public discourses generated and circulating as policy is mediatised that are extremely powerful and highly influential in policy and project development. I have borrowed from John Law (2004)in terming these circulating discourses the hinterland of power.This thesis identifies a considerable gap in the understanding and practice of policy analysts, politicians and decision-makers. It is a gap that is leading to the immobilisation of policy and projects. I have identified this gap as a failure to recognise and respect the powerful discourses that surround a policy arena. The results are policy and project announcements that 'shock' the public and the media. These shocks often spark a backlash that cripples even the most well-intentioned ideas. Ultimately, I draw on Foucault's analogy of the politician as 'weaver' of opinion rather than 'shepherd' of the populace in urging policy makers to pay due respect to prevailing discourse. I suggest that this should be the focus of policy communication strategies and suggest that contemporary readings of Foucault's later work -particularly notions of power as 'freedom' and 'production' might help us to better understand the changing nature of the media landscape and the question of the publicas collective subjects and/or individuals (with the ability to refuse). I consider such an understanding as vital not only to the successful development of mediatised messy policy but perhaps also to a broader reconceptualisation of media.

Date of Award	2015
Original language	English