Narrative power in the narrative policy framework

Abstract

The Narrative Policy Framework lacks clear and empirical explanations of power. Yet, the study of narratives is inherently the study of power in shaping policy outputs and decisions. We develop a conceptual model positing that expressions of power (power to, with, and over) may be discovered in narrative constructs (e.g., narrative structure, communication forum). We suggest that the dilemma of measuring the “unobserved” in power may be addressed methodologically using a counterfactual (e.g., experiment, comparative study). Finally, we uphold the use of keystone NPF variables (e.g., policy decisions, attention) as proxy measures of the outcomes of narrative power in the policy process. Taken together, this model advances the operationalization and measurement of narrative power in the policy process.