ABSTRACT
When solving complex problems, actors face substantive complexity. Substantive complexity stems from two sources. First, there are often various diverging perceptions regarding the problem at hand and its solution. As perceptions are hard to change, it is often difficult to align various actors’ perceptions and reach consensus about policies or measures to address complex societal problems. Second, there is often uncertainty and conflict about the available information. Experts and research do not always solve this, as the knowledge that they present can be controversial. Furthermore, the media play an important role, as they might help actors to gain attention for their perception of the problem and frame the issue accordingly. As the media simplify complexity and tend to focus on negative – and thus newsworthy – issues, they can also increase ideological segregation between actors.
