Conceptualizing numbers at the science–policy interface

Abstract

Quantitative information is one of the means used to interface science with policy. As a consequence, much effort is invested in producing quantitative information for policy and much criticism is directed toward the use of numbers in policy. In this paper I analyze five approaches drawn from such criticisms and propose alternative uses of quantitative information for governance: (i) valuation of ecosystem services, (ii) social multi-criteria evaluation, (iii) quantification of uncertainty through the NUSAP approach, (iv) Quantitative Story-Telling and (v) the heuristic use of statistics. The analysis shows the varied ways that numbers are conceptualized and how different conceptualizations matter for the science-policy interface. Alternative conceptualizations of numbers are used to challenge the model of science speaking truth to power. Uncertainty, complexity, pluralism, malpractice and values are mobilized to redefine the relations between science and policy. Alternative quantification may produce alternative facts, but reflexive approaches that use numbers to discuss the relevance of equity, positionality and quality in science for policy may offer a remedy.