EFFECTS OF KNOWLEDGE AND REFLECTION IN INTRAPERSONAL DELIBERATION: A THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND EMPIRICAL EVIDENCES

Abstract

This thesis, inspired by the call for a “systemic approach” to deliberation studies, looks at intrapersonal deliberation and its two significant components: knowledge and reflection. A theoretical framework has been built to suggest that intrapersonal deliberation is indispensable for the overall success of deliberation. Two empirical studies have been conducted to identify effects of the two components of intrapersonal deliberation. An experimental study showed that knowledge in intrapersonal deliberation significantly changed attitudes and reduced the willingness to express opinions in public, while reflection in intrapersonal deliberation enhanced perceived attitude correctness. A field study examined the effects of intrapersonal deliberation in the overall deliberation process. It found that both knowledge and reflection in intrapersonal deliberation partially changed attitudes, whilst increasing the perceived legitimacy and satisfaction of deliberation, as well as the intention of future deliberation. Knowledge also related to a higher level of intention to participate in future general political talks.