Catalyzing change : CCN conference proceedings Hamar 2006

Abstract

English: Dramatic and rapid transitions characterize the world today. Triggering constructive change is a major challenge facing the global community. Yet many individuals do not have the opportunity, the knowledge or the competence to actively participate in the debates and decisions that shape their lives. Commercial and political pressures often convince people that they have no influence. Empowering people to play a more effective role in the development of a just and caring society involves creating new attitudes, spaces and mechanisms which can stimulate involvement and strengthen trust. The third international conference of the Consumer Citizenship Network, Catalyzing Change, focused on consumers as agents for constructive change. The following issues were examined: · Which incentives contribute to the development of consumer citizenship? · What can be done to transform the consumer’s frustrations and uncertainties into change-creating energy? · How can consumer citizens contribute to improving public discourse and informed debate? · How can responsiveness, transparency, and trust between the producer and the consumer be stimulated? · How can consumer citizens use scientific research to create sustainable lifestyles? · How can commitment and consistency to sustainable consumption be promoted? It was acknowledged that many individuals do not have the opportunity, the knowledge or the competence to actively participate in the debates and decisions that shape their lives. Commercial and political pressures often convince people that they have no influence. The conference participants considered how new attitudes, spaces and mechanisms which stimulate involvement and strengthen trust can empower people to play a more effective role in the development of a just and caring society. The conference was organised by The Consumer Citizenship Network, an Erasmus thematic network of educators and researchers. The conference was coordinated by the Hedmark University College, Norway and hosted by the Hedmark University College, Norway. The conference was made possible with the support from the SOCRATES programme and the Norwegian Ministry of Children and Family Affairs and Ministry of Education.