Thesis (Ph.D.)--Syracuse University, 2008. / "Publication number: AAT 3323043."

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Cleveland State University, 2010. / Abstract. Title from PDF t.p. (viewed on May 7, 2010). Includes bibliographical references (p. 130-138). Available online via the OhioLINK ETD Center and also available in print.

Thesis (PhD (Public Affairs))-University of Pretoria, 2005. / Abstract in English. Includes bibliographical references. Available on the Internet via the World Wide Web.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Syracuse University, 2005. / "Publication number AAT 3194012."

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Syracuse University, 2005. / "Publication number AAT 3193855."

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Ohio State University, 1985. / Includes vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 336-352). Available online via OhioLINK's ETD Center.

<p> This dissertation suggests that network governance theory may have reached an impasse, and in order to pursue its advance, new methods need to be used. It tests the viability of actor-network theory on providing new insights on network governance, which could contribute to the strengthening of network governance theory. The author suggests that actor-network theory may offer both an epistemology and ontology that intents to not impose current definitions and divisions of traditional social science. By doing so, actor-network theory focuses on the performance of associations rather than on the traditional categories of structures, institutions, individuals or groups &mdash; characteristic of most network governance studies.</p><p> This study tests the viability of actor-network theory in a complex international environmental policy network in the Andean Amazon. It employs Latour&rsquo;s three-movement method of deployment of controversies, rendering associations traceable again, and reassembling governance. The methodological strategy provides a clean slate to search for a new perspective of network governance, which is based on participants&rsquo; perspectives. It is found that associations are established among programs, projects, public policies, among others; and that this associations seem to remain even if organizations, programs, and projects leave the network. Actor-networks&rsquo; roles in network governance appear to be not static, and their degree of affiliation ranges from formal to informal associations.</p><p> Applying actor-network theory in the study of network governance suggests that action is dislocated, and that groups are in continuous formation. Groups&rsquo; boundaries are define and redefine based on participants&rsquo; perspectives and associations. Finally, a discussion in regards to the implications of this research for both network governance and actor-network theory is offered. </p>

<p>Legislated renewable portfolio standards (RPSs) may not be the key to ensure forecast energy demands are met. States without a legislated RPS and with efficient permitting procedures were found to have approved and issued 28.57% more permits on average than those with a legislated RPS. Assessment models to make informed decisions about the need and effect of legislated RPSs do not exist. Decision makers and policy creators need to use empirical data and a viable model to resolve the debate over a nationally legislated RPS. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine if relationships between the independent variables of RPS and insolation levels and the dependent variable of the percentage of permits approved would prove to be a viable model. The research population was 68 cities in the United States, of which 55 were used in this study. The return on investment economic decision model provided the theoretical framework for this study and the model generated. The output of multiple regression analysis indicated a weak to medium positive relationship among the variables. None of these relationships were statistically significant at the 0.05 level. A model using site specific data might yield significant results and be useful for determining which solar energy projects to pursue and where to implement them without Federal or State mandated RPSs. A viable model would bring about efficiency gains in the permitting process and effectiveness gains in promoting installations of solar energy-based systems. Research leading to the development of a viable model would benefit society by encouraging the development of sustainable energy sources and helping to meet forecast energy demands.

<p> This dissertation develops an approach to institutional critique that re-works Porter, Sullivan, Blythe, Grabill, and Miles&rsquo; foundational configuration. This project argues that John Dewey&rsquo;s concept of democratic communication articulated in his debate with Walter Lippmann provides a useful heuristic for developing democratic communicative practices that allow citizens and experts to communicate with one another about technical issues such as water quality and safety. Through an analysis of Michigan&rsquo;s emergency manager law, the relationship between citizens and experts that exposed the crisis, and the Flint Water Advisory Task Force&rsquo;s Final Report, this dissertation establishes that citizens must participate in technical decision-making and makes pragmatic suggestions to increase citizens&rsquo; meaningful participation. This project concludes with theoretical and pedagogical implications of a participatory institutional critique.</p><p>

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