The latest SDG Academy brought together a diverse audience of researchers, students and citizens for an inspiring discussion on the future of behavioural policymaking. Hosted by the Amsterdam Sustainability Institute (ASI), Dr. Sanchayan Banerjee presented his new book Nudge+ - Think, Before You Nudge.
In an unconventional but rather suitable twist, the session spontaneously moved outdoors and took place under the shade of a tree at the VU StartHub. The relaxed summer setting created the perfect backdrop for a conversation centred on reflection, participation and democratic decision-making - and adressed an unexpected aspiration of Sanchayan: To speak under a tree and feel its wisdom enriching the discussion.
What followed was an engaging and entertaining presentation, during which Sanchayan, Associate Professor of Economics and Public Policy & Director of the Behavioural Public Policy Lab at King's College London and affiliate of ASI, introduced the central ideas of his new book, Nudge+: Think, Before You Nudge. Building on the influential concept of nudging, Nudge+ responds to some of the key criticisms of behavioural interventions. While nudges can be highly effective in shaping behaviour, they have also been criticised as paternalistic, raising questions about who decides what constitutes the "right" choice. In some cases, individuals may even feel deceived when they realise that aspects of the choice environment were deliberately designed to steer them towards an outcome they had not explicitly agreed to. Rather than dismissing these concerns, Nudge+ seeks to address these concerns by placing greater emphasis on reflection and deliberation by the individual. Instead of simply influencing behaviour, the approach encourages people to think critically about their choices and decide for themselves whether behavioural interventions align with their own values and goals. At the same time, it calls on policymakers to be more thoughtful and transparent when applying behavioural insights.
One of the highlights of the session was Sanchayan's use of practical, real-world examples that brought abstract concepts to life. Drawing on cases from public policy and everyday decision-making, he demonstrated how behavioural science can help tackle complex societal challenges, including climate change, while maintaining respect for citizens’ agency and autonomy. Participants engaged in a rich exchange of perspectives, reflecting the growing interest in behavioural approaches to sustainability and public policy.
Attendees continued conversations over refreshments and snacks as part of the ASI summer drinks that followed and celebrated the close of the academic year. The ASI team is now preparing the SDG Academies for the next year, should you have ideas and suggestions for topics or speakers, you can reach out to Neele van den Bongardt.