Nudge theory's structural role in shifting accountability from corporations to individuals
Original framing: “Nudge theory was all about taking responsibility, but it allowed big business to look the other way” — Phys.org
Indigenous knowledge systems emphasize relational responsibility and the interconnectedness of all life, which contrasts sharply with the individualistic framing of nudge theory. These systems often include collective decision-making processes that align with long-term ecological and social well-being, rather than short-term profit maximization.
Nudge theory, while rooted in behavioral science, functions as a neoliberal tool that shifts responsibility from powerful institutions to individuals, thereby reinforcing existing power imbalances.
This framing obscures the structural causes of social and environmental problems and legitimizes the continued operation of profit-driven systems. In contrast, indigenous and community-based models emphasize collective responsibility and relational ethics, offering alternative pathways for systemic change. To move forward, we must reform regulatory frameworks, integrate diverse knowledge systems, and invest in participatory governance models that prioritize equity and sustainability. Only through such systemic interventions can we address the root causes of inequality and ecological degradation.