Comparisons as a discursive tool

shaping megaproject narratives in the United Kingdom

Journal article (2023)

Authors

Natalya Sergeeva University College London
Dr. ir. Johan Ninan Integral Design & Management - CEG
Research Group
Integral Design & Management (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2023 Natalya Sergeeva, Dr Johan Ninan
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/polsoc/puad005
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Published Date

2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Department

Materials- Mechanics- Management & Design

Research Group

Integral Design & Management

Abstract

The mobilization of narratives is essential in integrating people and constructing identities that help in navigating complexity, uncertainty, and conflictuality. This paper explores how comparisons are used as a discursive tool to shape narratives and bring about changes in policy and society, using the High Speed Two megaproject in the UK as a case study. We examine the comparisons that promoters and protesters employ in an organizational setting. In particular, we explore how the narratives that result from these comparisons—on questions including the need for the megaproject, the benefits of the megaproject, alternatives to the megaproject, and issues of noise, sustainability, compensation, and branding—help their efforts to organize. The research highlights how comparisons serve as an important cue in discourse and how different forms of comparison can help to create narratives and shape policy outcomes.

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