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Climate Change and Three Models of Governance to Deal with it: Polycentricity, Experimentalist, and the Viable System Model

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  • Brian Lederer

    (Rosemary Square)

  • Jon Walker

    (University of Hull)

  • Ed Winden

    (DoITogether)

Abstract

We consider three models of governance to improve upon our present governance of climate change: Polycentricity associated with Nobel prize winner Elinor Ostrom; Experimentalist Governance associated with Bob Keohane, Charles Sabel, and David Victor; and the Viable System Model associated with Stafford Beer. We first consider governance itself versus government. We then explain each model, its origins, and rationale. Finally, by combining the strengths of each model, we synthesise a combined model that might be able to improve on each taken separately, on the present model, and be applicable to climate change.

Suggested Citation

  • Brian Lederer & Jon Walker & Ed Winden, 2025. "Climate Change and Three Models of Governance to Deal with it: Polycentricity, Experimentalist, and the Viable System Model," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 38(3), pages 1-51, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:syspar:v:38:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s11213-025-09712-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s11213-025-09712-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jordan K. Lofthouse & Roberta Q. Herzberg, 2023. "The Continuing Case for a Polycentric Approach for Coping with Climate Change," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-24, February.
    2. Ostrom, Vincent & Tiebout, Charles M. & Warren, Robert, 1961. "The Organization of Government in Metropolitan Areas: A Theoretical Inquiry," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 55(4), pages 831-842, December.
    3. Espinosa, Angela & Walker, J., 2013. "Complexity management in practice: A Viable System Model intervention in an Irish eco-community," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 225(1), pages 118-129.
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