Achieving Culture Change: A Policy
Framework
This discussion paper examines the role of cultural capital – our
attitudes, values, aspirations, and sense of self-efficacy – in influencing
behaviour. While governments have traditionally used incentives,
legislation or regulation to encourage behaviour change, this paper sets
out the state of knowledge on culture change, offering practical tools for
policymaking. The paper argues that policymakers should take a greater
account of the social and cultural interactions individuals pass through in
reaching decisions.
There are a range of tools that have been shown to help support and
encourage people into the behaviour required to reach the long-term
outcomes they want – whether in relation to education, healthy living, or
environmental sustainability. These approaches include:
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Supporting people through the most immediate influences to them, such as
interventions that promote parenting, peers, and role models.
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Supporting people through wider social influences, such as the role of
national dialogue or government leading by example.
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Enabling people through providing capacity and alternatives for different
choices alongside support, guidance and advice.
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Encouraging people through incentives, recognition of success, or use of
legislation and regulation.
This paper has been written by the Strategy Unit to facilitate discussion
and debate. It is not a statement of Government policy.
The Strategy Unit would like to thank all those who contributed to the
development of this paper, in particular those who participated in the
seminars and fed into the earlier consultation paper.
The Strategy Unit welcomes further feedback on this work, by e-mail at: david.knott@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk or in writing to:
David Knott
4.16, Admiralty Arch,
The Mall,
London,
SW1A 2WH
