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  • 1.
    Ahlström, Karin
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering, Industrial Economics and Organisation.
    Lindell, Eva
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering, Industrial Economics and Organisation.
    Stier, Jonas
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare.
    Negotiating shared Responsibility for sustainable urban Development: Pronouns and In-here-ness as rhetorical ResourcesManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    This article explores how issues of shared responsibility are negotiated in the realm of managing collaborative efforts between organizational actors for sustainable urban development abiding to the Agenda 2023 – with a particular focus on the rhetorical resources used in such negotiations. Through empirical material from recorded meetings in a one-year project at a municipal company, the article contributes to previous literature on collaborative ways of organizing and managing complex public challenges. With a focus on the discursive construction of shared responsibility, the concept of in-here-ness is introduced to denote accepted and assumed responsibility, which may shift through the use of pronouns: from a narrow ‘I’ or ‘we’ of stakeholders to a wider ‘we’ of collaborating parties. The article further contributes to the empirical field of sustainable development at the municipal level.

  • 2.
    Almqvist, Linda
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Groth, Lina
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    "Gneta på...": Hur bör en politiskt styrd organisation agera för att inte påverkas av förändrade förutsättningar? 2012Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    It’s of great importance to implant innovation in organisations that act in an influenced and changeable environment. An organisation that’s affected by for example political decisions has a bigger challenge facing this. We also see that organisations within the service sector and mainly services that occur close to people have a more difficult task when it comes to the subject innovation. There is a limit in efficiency and development within organisations who acts in this area. Because the world always changes we think that organisations always need to face this to be able to deliver, and then it’s important that service companies are aware of the importance of innovation. Innovation within organising need not mean a whole new way of organising, but it can point out knowledge and its flow in the company. Even new ways of thinking who permeates an organisation can be the start of implanting a more innovative environment. We believe that a more proactive action can gain organisations development and efficiency. By this we mean that organisations can work more with their visions of the future and work more active with predicting the future and what it can offer. This can in turn gain implanting of innovation in companies.

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    Gneta på...
  • 3.
    Anbäcken, Els-Marie
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare.
    `Best practice´ i äldreomsorg, vems perspektiv?: En kunskapsöversikt över metoder, faktorer och förhållanden som upplevs viktiga av äldre personer med demenssjukdom.2020Report (Other academic)
    Abstract [sv]

    Bakgrund och syfte: Uppdraget var att göra en kunskapsöversikt om `best practice´ i äldreomsorgen riktad till praktiker. Syftet blev att sammanställa och analysera forsknings-studier som på olika sätt belyser vad äldre personer med demenssjukdom ser som god omsorg och vård för ett gott liv i vardagen. Hur kommer de till tals i äldreomsorgen? Hur studeras de? Vilka förhållningssätt och metoder verkar upplevas meningsfulla? Hur ser evidensen ut för `best practice´ utifrån detta? Denna ansats valdes eftersom många studier utgår ifrån vårdgivarnas perspektiv och deras tolkningar av personer med demens.

    Metod och material:  En litteraturstudie på 36 vetenskapliga studier som, med några undantag, hittades i databaser utifrån valda sökord och som därefter analyserades tematiskt.

    Resultat och analys: De fyra teman som resultatet sorterades i var Brukardeltagande och inkludering, Interventioner, Relationer samt Mångfacetterade perspektiv utifrån deltagande observationer och berättelser. Resultatet visade på gränsöverskridanden mellan de olika temana men med flera gemensamma nämnare. Personcentrerad vård och omsorg liksom psykosociala insatser fångar in resultatet där flera komponenter behöver ingå:  Aktivt lyssnande på kommunikation i ord, kroppsspråk och handling; fullständig närvaro av vård och omsorgspersonal  när de är tillsammans med personen med demens. Att behandlas med respekt för den man är och har varit,  att uppleva tillhörighet till personer i livet nu och i livet som varit, att inkluderas i beslut framför allt i det som rör det dagliga livet. Att få leva i kontakt med omvärlden i olika mening, existentiellt men även konkret med nära och kära, med grannskapet, med naturen. Att uppleva välbefinnande, i glädje som i sorg kan stödjas i olika metoder av livsberättelser. För makar, att få stöd i sitt `parskap´ och för alla att behandlas från sitt `personskap´. För alla, men inte minst för ensamboende, är personalens roll stor för att  grundläggande livskvalité ska kunna upprätthållas.  

    Slutsatser och implikationer:  Lyssna på, Lev med och Lär av personen med demens och dennes närstående i den dagliga omsorgen och vården Skapa rutiner i äldreomsorgen utifrån denna kunskap. Investera i tid för att möjliggöra detta.

  • 4.
    Andersson, Camilla
    et al.
    Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Bjärås, Gunilla
    Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Tillgren, Per
    Mälardalen University, Department of Caring and Public Health Sciences.
    Östenson, Claes-Göran
    Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    A longitudinal assessment of inter-sectoral participation in a community-based diabetes prevention programme2005In: Social Sciences & Medicine, ISSN 0277-9536, Vol. 61, no 11, p. 2407-2422Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    To understand the development of inter-sectoral participation in the three intervention municipalities of Stockholm Diabetes Prevention Programme (SDPP) case studies with a longitudinal assessment were conducted using the spidergram method, document analysis and group discussions. At three time points, the members of the local steering committees assessed the extent of participation from narrow to wide inter-sectoral participation in five key areas: planning, resources, leadership, network and implementation. Wide participation of various interest groups was recognised in planning and implementing activities whereas local resources, the representation of the leadership and the extent of the network were perceived as more restricted. Expert involvement varied during the programme period but was not regarded as exerting control over the local programmes. Participation within the local steering committees decreased, with a stronger focus on the project co-ordinator and other local partners in latter years. The extent of partner engagement increased due to focusing on activities approaching multi-sector collaboration and institutionalisation. Overall, communication and shared responsibility appeared critical in influencing both the development and perception of participation. In conclusion, to understand the dynamic process of participation at different times, areas and levels, the development and use of evaluation designs combining different methods and information sources throughout the lifespan of a project are recommended. 

  • 5.
    Andersson, Carina
    Mälardalen University, Department of Innovation, Design and Product Development.
    Upplevelser av budskap: Fallstudier av hur användare upplever och förstår information i användargränssnitt2007Licentiate thesis, comprehensive summary (Other scientific)
    Abstract [sv]

    När användbarheten studeras av den information som presenteras i ett användargränssnitt på en datorskärm kan det framkomma vad som fungerar effektivt och korrekt. I sådana sammanhang förs sällan någon diskussion om hur den information som presenteras kommunicerar med en användare.

    Syftet med detta forskningsprojekt är att på ett generellt plan öka kunskapen om olika analytiska perspektiv för att studera den information som presenteras i ett användargränssnitt på en datorskärm, som ett led till att skapa begriplig information för människor. Mer preciserat är syftet att få en djupare förståelse för hur en informationslämnare kan kommunicera med en informationsanvändare genom den information som presenteras i ett användargränssnitt. Målet med forskningsprojektet är att presentera ett antal relevanta analytiska perspektiv som kan användas för att beskriva hur presenterad information i ett användargränssnitt kan kommunicera med en användare. Forskningsresultatet bidrar med ett ramverk som kan ligga till grund för ett analysstöd. Forskningsresultatet bidrar även med en ansats för framtida forskning inom området.

    Forskningsprojektet bygger på fyra fallstudier. Analysobjekten i fallstudierna utgörs av fyra olika användargränssnitt på datorskärm, vilka används inom olika myndigheter, organisationer och företag. Vartdera användargränssnittet och dess informationsdesign studeras med hänsyn till: informationslämnarnas önskemål och intentioner, informationsanvändarnas upplevelse och förståelse av information och kontexters påverkan.

    De slutsatser som dras är bland annat att informationsdesign i ett användargränssnitt på datorskärm upplevs och förstås av användare i samklang med inre, när och yttre kontext. Dessa kontexter kan studeras utifrån tre olika perspektiv, ett semiotiskt, ett retoriskt och ett narrativt perspektiv. En sådan analys kan framhäva den kommunikation som sker mellan de budskap som informationslämnaren vill berätta, hur den presenterade informationen i användargränssnittet arrangeras och komponeras och hur olika kontexter påverkar användarnas upplevelse och förståelse av den information som presenteras.

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  • 6.
    Andrighetto, Giulia
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics. Institute of Cognitive Science and Technology, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy; Institute for Future Studies, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Grieco, Daniela
    Department of Law, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
    Peer effects on compliance with extortive requests2020In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 15, no 4, p. 1-17, article id e0231879Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    We conduct laboratory experiments to study peer effects on compliance with extortive requests. To this aim, we use an “extortion game” with multiple victims. In agreement with our hypothesis, our results show that when the information on peers’ behavior is available, compliance with appropriative requests is triggered by conformism among victims rather than by punishment. Moreover, we find that extorted sums are rather small, requests are proportional to the victim’s earnings, similar across victims, and are significantly lower when the extorter self-selects into this role. Punishment is rare, but effective. Finally, our results indicate that fairness concerns matter even in a context of extra-legal taxation, shaping both extorters’ requests and victims’ compliance. 

  • 7.
    Apelmo, Karl
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare.
    Den osynliga kampen om tolkning: En kritisk analys av Orten bortom våldet utifrån Ernesto Laclau och Chantal Mouffes hegemonikritiska diskursteori2023Independent thesis Basic level (university diploma), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    In this essay, a discourse analysis of the material Orten bortom våldet is carried out with the help of Ernesto Laclau and Chantal Mouffe's hegemonic-critical discourse theory. The material Orten bortom våldet is central to Eskilstuna municipality's social prevention work against violence and crime. With the help of Laclau and Mouffe's discourse analysis, this study deconstructs the reasoning behind Orten bortom våldet. The aim is to make visible its hegemonic and ideological assumptions concerning the individual, society and social phenomena. The analysis uses central concepts based on Laclau and Mouffe's discourse theory to make visible and identify hegemonic and dominant discursive positions. The study shows that the analysis material rests on a dichotomous and dogmatic social differentiation discourse and an individual-centered liberal determinism regarding preventive social work and its interventions and problematizes these aspects from a we and them-critical perspective as well as an ideology-critical perspective.

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  • 8.
    Axelson, Tomas
    et al.
    Högskolan Dalarna, Sweden.
    Korsell, Lars
    Högskolan Dalarna, Sweden.
    Stier, Jonas
    Högskolan Dalarna, Sweden.
    Rädslan för terror förändrar människors vardag2019In: Dagens Samhälle, article id 2019-11-11Article in journal (Other (popular science, discussion, etc.))
    Abstract [sv]

    Att var tionde undviker vardagsmiljöer av rädsla för terror riskerar att öka misstron mellan människor. En balans av sociala, ekonomiska och polisiära åtgärder krävs nu för att skydda samhället mot attentat anser de tillfrågade i en ny undersökning, skriver forskare vid Högskolan i Dalarna.

  • 9.
    Babri, Maira
    et al.
    Örebro universitet, Handelshögskolan vid Örebro Universitet.
    Corvellec, Hervé
    Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
    Stål, Herman
    Umeå university, Umeå, Sweden.
    Power in the development of Circular Business Models: An Actor Network Theory approach2018Conference paper (Refereed)
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    FULLTEXT01
  • 10.
    Berglund, Mattias
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Middle-managers role in supporting public sector innovation - Shared spaces and directionless collaboration2023In: 8th annual conference of International Research Society for Public Management, Budapest april 3 - 5 2023: United or divided? Public value(s), Management and Governance in turbulent times, 2023Conference paper (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Middle managers have an important, but rarely recognized role in supporting innovation. This paper follows a group of middle-managers in a Swedish municipality over a five-year period in an attempt to understand middle managers role in innovation support, what they do and what they need. The study identifies that the creation and maintenance of innovation space as crucial for supporting innovation by others. Innovation support in this case where trough trust-based management rather than conscious promotion of innovation. This study also identified potential problems concerning the relationships with other parts of the municipality external to the innovation space. The results highlight a need to look further into concepts such as co-governance and the continuous management which supports employee driven innovation.

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  • 11.
    Bergman, Karolin
    et al.
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Eli, Karin
    Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, Oxford, United Kingdom.
    Persson Osowski, Christine
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Lövestam, Elin
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Nowicka, Paulina
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Public expressions of trust and distrust in governmental dietary advice in Sweden2019In: Qualitative Health Research, ISSN 1049-7323, E-ISSN 1552-7557, Vol. 29, no 8, p. 1161-1173Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    We examine public trust and distrust in governmental food and nutrition authorities, through analyzing 727 letters sent electronically to the Swedish National Food Agency by lay people. Using thematic analysis, four themes were developed, defining public expressions of trust and distrust in official dietary advice. Trust was expressed as (a) seeking to confirm and clarify dietary advice, or (b) seeking official arbitration between competing dietary advice. Distrust was expressed as (c) questioning and scrutinizing dietary advice, or (d) protesting and resisting dietary advice. Notably, expressions of distrust employed discursive practices that both mirrored authoritative discourses and subverted official advice, by appealing to scientific language and 'alternative' evidence. All letters positioned the agency as the ultimate authority on healthy eating; notwithstanding whether the agency’s advice was to be followed or resisted. Thus, the letters revealed how the same authoritative discourses can simultaneously be a site of public trust and distrust.

  • 12.
    Bergman, Karolin
    et al.
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Persson Osowski, Christine
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Eli, Karin
    University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
    Lövestam, Elin
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Elmståhl, Helena
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Nowicka, Paulina
    Uppsala universitet, Sweden.
    Stakeholder responses to governmental dietary guidelines: Challenging the status quo, or reinforcing it?2018In: British Food Journal, ISSN 0007-070X, E-ISSN 1758-4108, Vol. 120, no 3, p. 613-624Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose

    The purpose of this paper is to explore how stakeholders in the food and nutrition field construct and conceptualise “appropriate” national dietary advice.

    Design/methodology/approach

    In total, 40 voluntarily written stakeholder responses to updated official dietary guidelines in Sweden were analysed thematically. The analysis explored the logics and arguments employed by authorities, interest organisations, industry and private stakeholders in attempting to influence the formulation of dietary guidelines.

    Findings

    Two main themes were identified: the centrality of anchoring advice scientifically and modes of getting the message across to the public. Stakeholders expressed a view of effective health communication as that which is nutritionally and quantitatively oriented and which optimises individuals’ capacities to take action for their own health. Their responses did not offer alternative framings of how healthy eating could be practiced but rather conveyed an understanding of dietary guidelines as documents that provide simplified answers to complex questions.

    Practical implications

    Policymakers should be aware of industrial actors’ potential vested interests and actively seek out other stakeholders representing communities and citizen interests. The next step should be to question the extent to which it is ethical to publish dietary advice that represents a simplified way of conceptualising behavioural change, and thereby places responsibility for health on the individual.

    Originality/value

    This research provides a stakeholder perspective on the concept of dietary advice and is among the first to investigate referral responses to dietary guidelines.

  • 13.
    Bergström, Emelie
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering.
    Bird, Johanna
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering.
    "ÄTA BÖR MAN, ANNARS DÖR MAN": En studie om möjligheten till implementering av lakto-ovo-vegetarisk och ekologisk kost i Eskilstuna kommuns förskola2014Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to describe the possibility of implementing a lacto-ovo-vegetarian and organic diet in Eskilstuna municipality’s public preschool. Furthermore the purpose was to identify and describe the most important components involved in the implementation and their influence in the process.  The methods used were a survey based on a literature study. This study includes general information about meat production and consumption and also the use of pesticides in farming. It also brings up the environmental and health effects caused by the previously mentioned areas. The effects caused by meat production and consumption are, among others, greenhouse gas emissions and increased risk of some forms of cancer. The effects of pesticides are not fully stated but present studies indicate that the effects, especially regarding the environment, are negative. The study then narrows and describes the situation and organization in Eskilstuna municipality and finally describes the possible implementation process. The conclusion of the study was that an implementation is possible and a needed step towards a reduction of negative environmental and health impact. Learned habits that are created in an early age can act as a base for present and future challenges. Children will become the consumers of the future. An organic and lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet reduces the amount of antropogenic distributed compounds and greenhouse gases to the environment and can function as an instrument towards the achievement of the Swedish Environmental Objectives. Goals that are set by Eskilstuna municipality can also be favored by an implementation of the suggested diet in the public preschool.

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  • 14.
    Bockgård, Gustav
    et al.
    Uppsala universitet, Seminariet för nordisk namnforskning.
    Tunón, HåkanUppsala universitet, Centrum för biologisk mångfald.
    Gäller vanligt folkvett också för akademiker?: Rapport från ett seminarium om makt och etik2010Conference proceedings (editor) (Other academic)
  • 15.
    Brunnberg, Elinor
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Health and Welfare.
    Anbäcken, Els-Marie
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare.
    From public sector to Welfare pluralism - the Swedish situation in child, family and elderly care2014In: International seminar about the role of the family for the elderly care, between Sweden, Korea and japan: Who care for the elderly? / [ed] Lee, Jinsook, Daegue University, Dague University, Korea, 2014, p. 21-27Conference paper (Other academic)
  • 16.
    Börgel, Erika
    Mälardalen University, School of Sustainable Development of Society and Technology.
    "Många tror att det är knepiga personer som mobbas men det är tvärtom": En diskursanalytisk studie om den medialt konstruerade bilden av mobbning bland vuxna i arbetslivet2012Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Nio procent av svenskarna uppger att de har blivit mobbade på sin arbetsplats. För det mesta är det en överordnad som är förövaren. Mobbningen yttrar sig genom olika handlingar men gemensamt för de individer som drabbas är att det innebär stora konsekvenser för hälsan, och det är inte ovanligt att de slås ut ur arbetslivet helt. Mobbning innebär också stora ekonomiska kostnader för organisationen där den sker och för samhället i stort. Syftet med denna studie har varit att genom en diskursanalytisk ansats med retoriska inslag studera hur bilden av mobbning bland vuxna i arbetslivet konstrueras i och genom media. Genom en retorisk analys har det identifierats hur vuxenmobbning kan legitimeras som ett socialt problem, men också vad som skrivs om fenomenet och vilka orsaker som antas vara bakomliggande. Vilken bild som presenteras och reproduceras i media skapar villkor för hur vi pratar om mobbning och hur vi tror att problemet kan lösas. Det har betydelse för hur arbetsgivare och kollegor agerar när mobbning uppdagas på arbetsplatsen - tar man tag i problemet eller blundar man för det som sker? Resultatet visar att den bild som ges i media i stort sett går i linje med mobbningsforskningens. I media pekas arbetsorganisationen och ledarskapet ut som de viktigaste faktorerna till fenomenets uppkomst och existens. Men det finns de som menar att individuella egenskaper också är bakomliggande, vilket bidrar till att bekräfta att vissa egenskaper och personlighetsdrag ökar risken för att utsättas för mobbning. 

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    Många tror att det är knepiga personer som mobbas men det är tvärtom
  • 17.
    Ekström, Belinda
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Lean i offentlig förvaltning: En studie av leanimplementeringen inom Trafikverket2014Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Problem, Lean is a working method that has become more common in the public sector as it is expected to streamline everyday operations. A demand that more organizations need to consider. Within academic circles the efficiency of Lean is discussed, but also what is actually included in the concept of lean. The Swedish Transport Administration has implement lean as working method within a specific part of the organization, consisting of Traffic Engineers from six different regions. The aim is to streamline four different case management teams in their work. A previous quantitative survey has shown that the experience of lean and lean implementation varies in the different regions. This study focuses on finding out why.

    Purpose, The purpose of the study is to evaluate the Swedish Transport Administrations lean implementation and seek answers for why the regions have embraced the approach to different degrees, and why attitudes to lean differ between the regions.

    Method, The study's objective was to examine the underlying causes of why the attitudes towards lean differ among the different regions. Therefore, the study was based on a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews. These interviews were conducted in groups with traffic engineers to get a more region-specific overview of the problem. Interviews were also also conducted with the lean implementation managers in each region. The basis for the conclusions presented in this study are these interviews and an interdisciplinary review of previous research in the areas of: Innovation, Lean, Theory of Change and Organizational Culture.

    Conclusion, Organizational Change is a subject that is often treated mechanically, but with an organizational change, there must be an understanding of the complex systems that function within the organization. A change will engage and change the conditions for more employees than those directly involved, which affects the entire organization.Lean as a work method is more than a number of tools. There is an overarching philosophy that the Transport Administration needs to understand and make their own if they are to succeed in their lean work. Attitudes about lean depends on several factors. The regions experiencing that they previously had problems and that with lean have experienced an improvement is more in favor of lean as a working method. They also feel they have more influence on their work and that they are able to point out what they think needs to change. These regions give expression that communication in the implementation phase has been clear and correct. The regions who has taken a negative view to lean expresses that they have not had any problems with its previous approach. They also feel that lean mean a locking of the work where they used to be able to come up with their own initiatives and that they must now adapt to working methods that are not designed for the their specific needs. Communication has been experienced vague or nonexistent. In some cases, the attitudes towards lean have been directly affected by the spread of rumors that have arisen in the absence of clear information.

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    Lean i offentlig forvaltning
  • 18.
    Eriksson, Kimmo
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Coultas, Julie C.
    Stockholm University.
    Corpses, maggots, poodles and rats: Emotional selection operating in three phases of cultural transmission of urban legends2014In: Journal of Cognition and Culture, ISSN 1567-7095, E-ISSN 1568-5373, Vol. 14, no 1-2, p. 1-26Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In one conception of cultural evolution, the evolutionary success of cultural units that are transmitted from individual to individual is determined by forces of cultural selection. Here we argue that it is helpful to distinguish between several distinct phases of the transmission process in which cultural selection can operate, such as a choose-toreceive phase, an encode-and-retrieve phase, and a choose-to-transmit phase. Here we focus on emotional selection in cultural transmission of urban legends, which has previously been shown to operate in the choose-to-transmit phase. In a series of experiments we studied serial transmission of stories based on urban legends manipulated to be either high or low on disgusting content. Results supported emotional selection operating in all three phases of cultural transmission. Thus, the prevalence of disgusting urban legends in North America may be explained by emotional selection through a multitude of pathways. 

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  • 19.
    Eriksson, Kimmo
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Simpson, B.
    University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States .
    Poverty Prefers Company2014In: Social Psychology and Personality Science, ISSN 1948-5506, E-ISSN 1948-5514, Vol. 5, no 3, p. 319-325Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In three web-based experiments, we show that both actual poverty and experimentally induced (imagined) poverty create a preference for greater inequality. Study 1, a cross-national comparison between Americans and Swedes, showed that respondents who were actually poor and those who were experimentally induced to imagine that they were poor tended to express a heightened preference for greater inequality, and for a higher proportion of poor citizens. Study 2 replicated the effects using different procedures. Study 3 showed that imagining oneself being poor increases preferences for a greater proportion of poor people, but imagining oneself being rich does not increase preferences for a greater proportion of rich people. This poverty prefers company effect might affect support for policies aiming at reducing the number of poor people.

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  • 20.
    Fell, Terence
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering, Industrial Economics and Organisation.
    Rydenstam, Tove
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Health and Welfare.
    Buli, Benti Geleta
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Health and Welfare.
    King, A. C.
    Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.
    Bälter, Katarina
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Health and Welfare. Karolinska Institute, Stockholm.
    Citizen science in sweden’s stigmatized neighborhoods2021In: Sustainability, E-ISSN 2071-1050, Vol. 13, no 18, article id 10205Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Based on the synthesis of outside versus inside perspectives, this paper weighs the positive attributes of the so-called deprived place against its negative media image. Applying the concept of territorial stigmatization, small-scale citizen science was conducted to gain a unique understanding of the Swedish neighborhood from within. With the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11 in mind, this approach enables researchers to reach otherwise difficult to access young urban outcasts and probe the potential to overcome their community’s lack of political influence. An overlap between local media narratives and urban outcasts’ perceptions of “drug and crime” and “football and school” was revealed. Yet, this first-generation study also painted a somewhat different picture of the stigmatized neighborhood, supplying new insights about places that matter most for marginalized young males. In this Swedish case, their pictures revealed that the local corner market, football court and youth club act as an antidote for the effects of stigmatization. This Our Voice citizen science initiative proved to be a good measure of two communities’ abilities to withstand stigmatization, which is either tainted by false perceptions from the outside or weakened by crime from within. Finally, attempting to bypass structural discrimination, citizen scientists’ findings and researchers’ conclusions were made available to students, colleagues and guests at a poster presentation hosted by Mälardalen University and to concerned politicians from Eskilstuna City Hall as well as the broader public via a local Swedish television station. 

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  • 21.
    Florin, Ulrika
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Från idé till gestaltningsförslag: fallstudie från Projekt Konstpaus2010Licentiate thesis, monograph (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Abstract

    The overall intention of this research project is to increase knowledge regarding design processes in general and artists' design processes specifically. The research is carried out as a case study based on the sketch processes that took place within Projekt Konstpaus (The Art Break Project). The sketches, or suggested designs, are the main objective for analysis and consideration in this study.

    Projekt Konstpaus (The Art Break Project) is a development pro­ject partially financed by the European Union (EU). The vision of the project embodied equality, multiculturalism and sustainable community development. The municipality of Strängnäs, Sweden was the leading partner in the project and provided the necessary support for the project idea, financing and infrastructure. The innovative aim of the project was to have various groups of people from different backgrounds working together in the same processes. The project team consisted of several artists and people with university educations, such as archaeologists, cultural geographers, biologists and geologists. The main objective of the project team was to provide the basis for the construction of a culturally inspired walking and bicycle path. Several rest spots/rest stops (“konstpauser”) designed with artistic cha­racter and influenced primarily by the municipality’s extensive nature/cul­tural heritage will be found along the path (which has been approved for construction). One initial task of the project team was to make an inventory of the nature and culture artifacts within the project area as a means of promoting na­ture/culture preservation for the benefit of future generations through information sharing. The walking/bicycle path will be accessible to all, with special provision for physically challenged individuals. The intention is to provide an environment for both quietude and physical recreation.

    The artists within the project embedded their artistic interpretations of the inventory and communicated them by suggesting artistic designs (sketches) related to the planned path. A jury then considered the sketches. Sketch, text, models and jury decisions (regarding the designs) are the objective of this research. The analysis of the material (sketches, texts, models and jury decisions, both oral and written) exposes the artistic processes. It is also the key to understanding the messages the artists intend to convey through their suggested designs. It is important to realize the significance (specific characteristics) of different types of sketches to be able to make decisions based on sketch materials. When sketches are examined, this awareness is central to making the right decision. In this study, three different types of sketches are examined, and the reading of each type is discussed.

    When studying the suggested designs, insight was gained regarding the differences between using computer-aided design and traditional sketch tools. Knowledge was also increased concerning the development of sketch techniques generally, and when using computers specifically. A dualism of sight and seeing in terms of the visualization of an idea exists, and it is discussed in the light of empirical examples. It is also placed in relation to important technological steps taken earlier in history. The use of Camera Obcura as a helpful tool for composition is one such step. The use of this tool impacted on how the inner view was changed and, with that, manners of expression as well. This is seen in the composition of paintings and the use of language. Our thinking is influenced by what we see, and that, in turn, influences our thoughts. In our contemporary western paradigm, our commonly-held definition of "seeing" is influenced by computer-gained visual representations and the processes used when producing them. The study confirms that while this particular type of sketch exposes the suggested design idea a bit clearer than traditional sketches, it also reveals errors in the suggested designs. I have also found that both written and spoken language routes the interpretation of sketch material. In terms of understanding how the suggested designs are chosen by a jury, this component (the spoken or written language) was seen in the empirical material revealed in this study. It was also theoretically confirmed.

    Together with an overall insight into the artistic processes, this study confirms the possibility of using artists in a development process. In this project, the process was to promote na­ture and culture preservation. It is valuable to integrate diverse areas of knowledge in the same process. This is true in both a social and an environmental sense. Finally, findings in this analysis confirm that artists are able to convey messages through their suggested designs (sketches). Those messages include interpretations of place, space, history and findings related to the project area.

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  • 22.
    Florin, Ulrika
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Konstnärskap i samspel: om skapande arbetsprocesser i myndighetsledda samverkansprojekt2015Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Artists in interaction: creation processes in official collaborative projects is a doctoral thesis that explores the creation processes of artists, when the project owner defines the purpose, theme and framework. The area is explored from the artists' perspective and the overall research question deals with the opportunities and obstacles that artists face when working in collaborative projects.

    To be able to explore the artists' working processes, in which sketches and models were tools, concepts from the visual research field were combined with knowledge theories that derive from the area of practice-based research. The knowledge theories draw on an updated understanding of ancient philosophy developed by, among others, the philosopher Martha Nussbaum. Rudolf Arnheim’s concepts of visual thinking are also vital for the interpretation of the visuals.

    The results indicate that skills in different sketching techniques build trust and enable communication. However, the artists experienced that it was more difficult to integrate the more indefinable parts of their knowledge, which relates to improvisation and intuition, even though this was highlighted as the most vital force in their working processes. The consequence is that the artists have not always followed their artistic intentions, which in some cases also meant compromising the quality of the works of art  they produced. The collaboration between the artists and the project-owner representatives could be more enriching for both parties if the artists' implicit knowledge is respected as a resource and given some room, although this may involve certain risks.

    The study also provides results regarding the interpretation of models and sketches, and discusses in what way different sketches can support (or hinder) communication in different stages of a design process, i.e. what aspects are important to consider when sketches are used to support communication. Particularly interesting is that the findings demonstrate that spoken and written language has a significant impact on how sketches are interpreted; the use of verbal language is therefore an important factor in presentations built on visuals.

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  • 23.
    Folkesson, Maria
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Pettersson, Hanna
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Morgondagens skola: En studie av det uråldriga sättet att arbeta2008Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 points / 15 hpStudent thesis
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  • 24.
    Forslund, Tommie
    et al.
    Department of Psychology, Stockholm university; SUF kunskapscenter Region Uppsala.
    Fernqvist, Stina
    Uppsala universitet, Centrum för socialt arbete - CESAR.
    Tegler, Helena
    Uppsala universitet, Centrum för socialt arbete - CESAR.
    Parents with Intellectual Disability Reporting on Factors Affecting their Caregiving in the Wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study2022In: JARID: Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities, ISSN 1360-2322, E-ISSN 1468-3148, Vol. 35, no 6, p. 1380-1389Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Parents with intellectual disability are vulnerable to parenting stress and overwhelming life events. The Covid-19 pandemic constitutes a potentially overwhelming event, but there is little knowledge concerning the effects on parents’ caregiving. The present study aimed to fill this gap.

    Method: Semi-structured interviews with ten Swedish parents with intellectual disability were analysed using thematic analysis.

    Results: One broad caregiving-related theme: Increased caregiving demands and reduced resources for coping resulting in strained parent-child interactions and relationships. Four subthemes highlighted influential factors: Pandemic information; professional support; social relationships and informal support; and children’s school activities. Strained parent-child interactions were particularly common in the absence of adapted pandemic information, if professional and informal support were compromised, and if the parents had dealt with school-related changes.

    Conclusions: Findings support contextual models of caregiving and a stress-resources perspective, and emphasize the importance of adapted information and support to parents with intellectual disability during crises.

  • 25.
    Fransson, Sebastian
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering.
    Sundberg, Elin
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering.
    Ingen vill väl bo under en sten?: En kvalitativ intervjustudie om svenska gymnasieelevers nyhetskonsumtion i förhållande till ett demokratiskt medborgarskap2022Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Digitaliseringen som sker i accelererande hastighet i dagens samhälle har bidragit till en mångfald av nyhetskanaler och informationskällor, vilket ställer krav på att välja ut nyhetsinnehåll för konsumtion i det digitala medielandskapet. I utbildningskontext förväntas elever förvärva skolväsendets demokratiska värden, där främst samhällskunskapsämnet fått axla rollen i att fostra och bilda kompetenta och ansvarskännande medborgare. Implementering av nyhetsinnehåll i samhällskunskapsundervisningen kan främja ungdomars nyhetskonsumtion och politiska intresse, vilket kan fylla en viktig funktion för samhällsengagemang och medborgarskap. Därav är syftet med denna studie att undersöka och synliggöra svenska gymnasieelevers nyhetskonsumtion och upplevelser av denna i förhållande till ett demokratiskt medborgarskap. Studien avser även att belysa dessa gymnasieelevers politiska intresse, engagemang och deltagande, vilket kan avspeglas i deras roll som aktiva samhällsmedborgare. Detta har undersökts genom tio kvalitativa och semistrukturerade forskningsintervjuer med gymnasieelever i årskurs 3 på ett högskoleförberedande program i en medelstor stad i Mellansverige. Det empiriska materialet har analyserats utifrån nationell såväl internationell forskning samt Dahls demokratiteori och Festingers Selective Exposure Theory. Resultatet antyder att gymnasieeleverna har ett utpräglat nyhetsintresse och konsumerar nyheter i relativt stor utsträckning eftersom de betonar vikten av att vara välinformerad om det politiska och omvärlden. De plattformar som primärt selekteras för nyhetskonsumtion och informationssökning är digitala och sociala medier, även om vissa spår av traditionella medier kan skönjas. De slutsatser som dras är att majoriteten av gymnasieeleverna uppvisar tendenser av hög nyhetskonsumtion, utbredd diskussionsbenägenhet och ökad medvetenhet om det demokratiska medborgarskapets rättigheter och skyldigheter samt att digitala och sociala medier är betydelsefulla nyhetsförmedlare. Vidare dras även slutsatsen att samtliga elever ser sitt röstberättigande i fria och frekventa val som fundamentalt för effektivt deltagande och inkludering i den demokratiska processen. Implementering av nyhetsmedia i samhällskunskapsundervisningen kan även stimulera elevers värderingar och kunskaper om det politiska, vilket kan främja deras politiska intresse och nyhetskonsumtion.

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  • 26.
    Gottlieb, Laura
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Andersson Schaeffer, Jennie
    Teatime: Exploring ways to support diverse narratives on sustainability through design2022In: The Design Journal, ISSN 1460-6925, E-ISSN 1756-3062, Vol. 25, no 1, p. 44-61Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In the design research community, diverse narratives and ontologies are discussed in relation to sustainability. Relational ontology is proposed as an alternative to the dominant dualist ontology as a way to reconnect people with their ecological embeddedness and responsibility. This work presents a dialogical tool called 'teatime' created to introduce diverse, immaterial perspectives on sustainability in a co-design project with youth and researchers. The study explores the role of the teatime design in eliciting diverse narratives and forming a dialogical space. The results show that the teatime supported reflections on immaterial perspectives, bringing out relational and social values related to the ecological crises. This study uses a systematic evaluation to reveal a micro-material perspective on ways in which the teatime design and facilitation supported the inquiry process. We propose that the design practitioners take on the role of crafting dialogical spaces that support social relationships and evoke immaterial perspectives.

  • 27.
    Granlund, Anna
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Rosio, Carin
    Jonkoping Univ, Sch Engn, Dept Ind Engn & Management, Jonkoping, Sweden..
    Bruch, Jessica
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Johansson, Peter
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Lead factory operationalisation and challenges2019In: Production planning & control (Print), ISSN 0953-7287, E-ISSN 1366-5871, Vol. 30, no 2-3, p. 96-111Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This paper deepens the understanding of the lead factory concept by examining how the lead factory role is operationalised and what challenges are associated with it. The research is based on an explorative case study of eight Swedish lead factories in the manufacturing industry. The empirical findings suggest that the understanding of the lead factory concept should be extended as it is not restricted to one type of set-up. The findings show a spectrum ranging from an entire manufacturing plant, parts of a plant, to a virtual plant considered to be the lead factory. The research also shows a broad range of challenges experienced by lead factories. Several of these are related to and originate from unclear role, responsibility and mandate of the lead factory. The lack of dedicated resources for lead factory activities, specifically long-term development and difficulties in measuring the benefits of the role, were other challenges faced.

  • 28.
    Grönlund, Sophie
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Narvell, Jacob
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Johansson, Amanda
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Värdeskapande i sociala interaktioner: Ett innovativt synsätt på kundförståelse genom interaktion och engagemang2015Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

     

    Research-question: Which key activities do companies use to create value together with theircustomers through social interactions?

    Purpose: This study aims to investigate which activties the interviewed companies use in theirvalue-creation processes with their customers through social interactions.

    Method: The research question was examined by using a qualitative research design, throughsemi-structured interviews. A purposefull sample of eight respondents with different positions,from various companies operating in multiple fields.

    Conclusion: The study indicates that the interviewed companies use different kinds of keyactvities in their value-creation processes with their customers through social interactions. Someof the activities were shared in all of the companies, and some are more commonly used and hasproved to be more efficiant than others. Regardless of which activities were used by thecompanies, and regardless of which company, there was a similar process used by all companies:the company sends out output, this output reaches the customers and engages them. The processis driven by this engagement and through this engagement the company can gain information andknowledge, which they use to improve and make changes that are necessary to better match theircustomers’ needs and wishes. The improvements that are implemented by the companycontributes to the customers’ engagement and encourages them to continue with their socialinteractions with the company.

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  • 29.
    Hjelm, Anna
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, Department of Innovation, Design and Product Development.
    Möller, Johanna
    Mälardalen University, Department of Innovation, Design and Product Development.
    En skyltserie om Mälsåkers slott: - text, bild och layout ur ett informationsdesignsperspektiv2007Student thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Mälsåkers slott utanför Strängnäs saknar information för sina spontana besökare som kommer när slottet är stängt. Riksantikvarieämbetet som förvaltar slottet efterlyste fem informationsskyltar med text och bild som skulle placeras ut i slottets park. Texterna skulle bygga på slottets forna ägare och göra avstamp i fem olika tidsepoker. Vi har utifrån litteratur, undersökningar och egna erfarenheter konstaterat att många utställningstexter inte blir lästa. Genom detta examensarbete har vi försökt förändra detta och skapa texter som inte bara blir lästa utan även upplevs som intressanta och spännande. Skyltarnas bild och layout skulle passa väl in i slottets miljö och anpassas efter en given målgrupp. Våra metoder har bestått av litteraturstudier, studiebesök, intervjuer och utprovning med fokusgrupp för att få en tydlig bild av målgruppens önskemål. Under utprovningen visade det sig att konceptet med fokus på människor och vår skönlitterära stil fångade läsaren och gjorde texterna lättsmälta och intressanta. Vårt arbete bygger inte på någon förundersökning av målgruppen eller någon föranalys av utställningstexter utan grundar sig på litteratur och fältstudier. Vi har inte heller utfört någon utvärdering av slutresultatet då skyltarna vid examensarbetets deadline ännu inte placerats ut i sin miljö.

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  • 30.
    Jallow, Cherno
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    IDÉER INKUBERADE FÖR FRAMGÅNG: En kvalitativ studie om en inkubators styrkor och svagheter inom det svenska innovationssystemet2015Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Idélab is a government financed and non-commercial incubator within Mälardalen University. Their main objective is to give developing support to idea holders and entrepreneurs who have a direct connection to the university. The majority are students that rarely have experience regarding product- and business development. The students need, ambition and knowledge differs when they enter the incubator. Idélab is challenged with adapting their processes to satisfy everyone, and to do so with reasonable resources. Instead of finding out whether or not Idélab can increase the number of successful and growing companies, the dissertation gives the notion that an operational strategy rather be further developed. The organization needs to map out and categorize their users with focus on need and direction. Therefore the recommendation is to redefine the vision and internal as well as external goals. This could help to clarify their own definition of what success and sustainable growth means to their users and themselves.

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    Idéer inkuberade för framgång
  • 31.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    Stockholm University, Sweden.
    Pitfalls in Spatial Modelling of Ethnocentrism: A Simulation Analysis of the Model of Hammond and Axelrod2013In: JASSS: Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation, E-ISSN 1460-7425, Vol. 16, no 3Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency to behave differently towards strangers based only on whether they belong to the ingroup or the outgroup. It is a widespread phenomenon that can be triggered by arbitrary cues, but the origins of which is not clearly understood. In a recent simulation model by Hammond and Axelrod, an ingroup bias evolves in the prisoners’ dilemma game. However, it will be argued here that the model does little to advance our understanding of ethnocentrism. The model assumes a spatial structure in which agents interact only with their immediate neighbourhood, populated mostly by clones, and the marker becomes an approximate cue of whether the partner is one. It will be shown that agents with an ingroup bias are successful compared to unconditional cooperators since they only exclude non-clones, but are outcompeted by less error-prone kin identifiers. Thus, the results of the simulations can be explained by a simple form of kin selection. These findings illustrate how spatial assumptions can alter a model to the extent that it no longer describes the phenomenon under study.

  • 32.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication.
    What Strategic Structures Support the Evolution of Ethnocentrism?Manuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Game theory deals with the impact of strategic structure on interactions. It is of course not known what strategic structures (i.e., games) dominated interactions in the evolutionary past of humans. Evolutionary models often uncritically assume some game, typically some kind of the prisoners’ dilemma, to investigate the effects of some other feature of the model. Here, another approach is suggested: What can be said about the likely strategic structure of interactions, given the features of human evolved psychology? The feature considered in this paper is ethnocentrism (also known as ingroup bias), which refers to the tendency to behave differently to different strangers simply depending on whether they seem to belong to the ingroup or the outgroup. Analysis and simulations of simple evolutionary models indicate that only some strategic structures are conducive to the evolution of ethnocentrism. In particular, this class does not contain the prisoners’ dilemma, but it does contain anti-coordination and coordination games, with socially optimal strategies being more frequent in ingroup interactions in the latter, especially if the other strategy is risk dominant, which applies to a class of games known as the stag hunt. This indicates that the strategic structure of coordination games, such as the stag hunt, and anti-coordination games, such as hawk-dove, may have been more common than games of cooperation and defection in human’s evolutionary past.

  • 33.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Aguilar, Elliot
    Stockholms universitet.
    Acerbi, Alberto
    Brunel University London.
    Enquist, Magnus
    Stockholms universitet.
    Modelling cultural systems and selective filters2021In: Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Biological Sciences, ISSN 0962-8436, E-ISSN 1471-2970, Vol. 376, no 1828, article id 20200045Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    A specific goal of the field of cultural evolution is to understand how processes of transmission and selection at the individual level lead to population-wide patterns of cultural diversity and change. Models of cultural evolution have typically assumed that traits are independent of one another and essentially exchangeable. But culture has a structure: traits bear relationships to one another that affect the transmission and selection process itself. Here we introduce a modelling framework to explore the effect of cultural structure on the process of learning. Through simulations, we find that introducing this simple structure changes the cultural dynamics. Based on a basic filtering mechanism for parsing these relationships, more elaborate cultural filters emerge. In a mostly incompatible cultural domain of traits, these filters organise culture into mostly (but not fully) consistent and stable systems. Incompatible domains produce small homogeneous cultures, while more compatibility increases size, diversity, and group divergence. When individuals copy based on a trait's features (here, its compatibility relationships) they produce more homogeneous cultures than when they copy based on the agent carrying the cultural trait. We discuss the implications of considering cultural systems and filters in the dynamics of cultural change.

  • 34.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Aguilar, Elliot
    Stockholms universitet.
    Acerbi, Alberto
    Brunel University London.
    Enquist, Magnus
    Stockholms universitet.
    Modelling cultural systems and selective filtersManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    A specific goal of the field of cultural evolution is to understand how processes of transmission and selection at the individual level lead to population-wide patterns of cultural diversity and change. Models of cultural evolution have typically assumed that traits are independent of one another and essentially exchangeable. But culture has a structure: traits bear relationships to one another that affect the transmission and selection process itself. Here we introduce a modelling framework to explore the effect of cultural structure on the process of learning. Through simulations, we find that introducing this simple structure changes the cultural dynamics. Based on a basic filtering mechanism for parsing these relationships, more elaborate cultural filters emerge. In a mostly incompatible cultural domain of traits, these filters organise culture into mostly (but not fully) consistent and stable systems. Incompatible domains produce small homogeneous cultures, while more compatibility increases size, diversity, and group divergence. When individuals copy based on a trait's features (here, its compatibility relationships) they produce more homogeneous cultures than when they copy based on the agent carrying the cultural trait. We discuss the implications of considering cultural systems and filters in the dynamics of cultural change.

  • 35.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Buskell, Andrew
    University of Cambridge, UK.
    Enquist, Magnus
    Stockholm University, Sweden.
    Cultural SystemsManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Many cultural phenomena cannot be understood by studying traits in isolation. Instead, they are embedded in webs of relations, layered with rich social meaning, and sequentially acquired and evaluated, \emph{filtered}, in light of previously acquired traits. Incorporating multiple traits and their relations is needed to understand the organization, dynamics, and emergent products of cultural evolution. We argue that a systems approach offers the potential for: (i) a more thorough understanding of the source and character of emergent phenomena, crucial for understanding the origin and historical development of culture; (ii) an increased scope of cultural evolution, whereby faithful transmission, self-organization and filtering of culture can be accounted for by systems dynamics without the need for strong assumptions about innate machinery; and (iii) a more robust theoretical connection between cultural evolution and processes of development as they are studied in developmental psychology and related fields.

  • 36.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Buskell, Andrew
    University of Cambridge.
    Enquist, Magnus
    Stockholm University.
    Cultural Systems2023In: The Oxford Handbook of Cultural Evolution / [ed] Jamshid J. Tehrani, Jeremy Kendal & Rachel Kendal, Oxford University Press, 2023Chapter in book (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Many cultural phenomena cannot be understood by studying traits in isolation. Instead, they are embedded in webs of relations, layered with rich social meaning, and sequentially acquired and evaluated, filtered, in light of previously acquired traits. Incorporating multiple traits and their relations is needed to understand the organization, dynamics, and emergent products of cultural evolution. This chapter argues that a systems approach offers the potential for: (i) a more thorough understanding of the source and character of emergent phenomena, crucial for understanding the origin and historical development of culture; (ii) an increased scope of cultural evolution, whereby faithful transmission, self-organization and filtering of culture can be accounted for by systems dynamics, without the need for strong assumptions about innate machinery; and (iii) a more robust theoretical connection between cultural evolution and processes of development as they are studied in developmental psychology and related fields.

  • 37.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Enquist, Magnus
    Stockholms universitet, Sweden.
    Aguilar, Elliot
    Buskell, Andrew
    University of Oxford, UK.
    Acerbi, Alberto
    Brunel University London, UK.
    Modelling Cultural Systems and Selective Filters2022Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Introduction

    Cultural traits are embedded in webs of relations and sequentially acquired and evaluated – filtered – in light of previously acquired traits. Incorporating multiple traits and their relations is needed to understand the organisation, dynamics, and emergent products of cultural evolution.

    Approach

    We introduce a modelling framework of individual filtering of interdependent traits and explore the effects on cultural transmission and emergent phenomena, through mathematical treatment and simulations.

    Findings

    Sequential acquisition of compatible traits leads to culturally evolved filters. These organise culture into mostly consistent and stable systems. Depending on the structure of trait relations, they modulate rates of cultural change, exhibit path dependence and punctuated equilibria, and can generate convergent transmission, clustering and polarisation.

    Discussion

    A systems view of culture can give a fuller understanding of the source and character of emergent phenomena. It increases the scope of cultural evolution, whereby faithful transmission, self-organisation and filters can be accounted for by systems dynamics without strong assumptions on innate machinery.

  • 38.
    Jansson, Fredrik
    et al.
    Stockholm University, Sweden.
    Strimling, Pontus
    Institutet för framtidsstudier, Sweden.
    Vartanova, Irina
    Institutet för framtidsstudier, Sweden.
    Eriksson, Kimmo
    Institutet för framtidsstudier, Sweden.
    Trends in Public Opinion Explained by the Moral Psychology of Liberals and Conservatives2018In: Applications in Cultural Evolution: Arts, Languages, Technologies: Conference abstracts, 2018, p. 17-18Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 39.
    Johansson, Anna
    Karlstads universitet, Sweden.
    Societal risk and safety management: Policy diffusion, management structures and perspectives at the municipal level in Sweden2013Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    This compilation thesis investigates risk and safety management at the Swedish local governmentallevel. It sets special focus on municipal implementation of overall international and nationalstrategies and objectives regarding holistic, cross-sectorial and multi-strategic risk and safetywork, and the prevention of accidents and injuries.

    The overall aim for this thesis have been to empirically map and provide an overview of theadministrative structures for, and the prevailing management perspectives applied in the societalrisk and safety management in Sweden, as well as to study the diffusion of strategic intentions forthis area down to the municipal level.

    Three different sources constitute the thesis empirical base: two different set of official planningdocuments, written by Swedish municipal officials on commission of the local politiciansand one set of data from a survey investigation with municipal officials representing differentdepartments/functions. The documents were investigated using content analysis, while datafrom the survey were analyzed using statistical measures.

    This thesis provides through its empirical works an outlook on the general characteristics andarchetypical features of the Swedish local level’s administrative structures and managementperspective on risk and safety management; and proposes a municipal typology and a set of valuecharacters for allocation and institutionalization of risk and safety-tasks. This thesis also suggestsa conceptual framework for overviewing risk and safety management’s systemic steering elementsin its framework report. Based on the findings made, it seems as if the local level’s compliance tothe strategic level’s ambitions for the risk and safety area is hindered by practical implementationdifficulties and that much work remains in order to reach stated strategic objectives regardingholistic, inter-sectorial and multi-strategic management approaches, and preventive risk andsafety work.

  • 40.
    Johansson, Anna
    et al.
    Karlstads universitet, Sweden.
    Denk, Thomas
    ÅBO Akademi University, Finland.
    Svedung, Inge
    Karlstads universitet, Sweden.
    Institutionalization of risk and safety management at the local governmental level in Sweden2009In: Journal of Risk Research, ISSN 1366-9877, E-ISSN 1466-4461, Vol. 12, no 5, p. 687-708Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The starting point for this article is the need for empirical knowledge about organizational configuration for societal risk and safety management activities in a modern welfare society. In this paper, we use Sweden as an empirical frame to analyze the administrative management structure at the local governmental level. The analysis is based on statistical analysis of information from a web‐survey with administrative chief/head officials (n = 1283) with responsibilities for different municipal functions and sectors. The sample represented 25% of the Swedish municipalities (n = 290) and the response rate was approximately 60% (n = 766). The responses to two sets of questions (25 and 45 questions) are used for statistical analyses of management structures and task distribution within the municipal organizations. Principal component factor analyses with Varimax and Kaiser's Normalization was applied as a structure detection method. The results indicate a clear and uniform way to institutionalize societal risk and safety management at the local level. Furthermore, the management course of action is found to have different types of value characters. The implications that arise from the patterns identified in this study are considered to be of general relevance and topicality for research and practice in this area.

  • 41.
    Johansson, Anna
    et al.
    Karlstads universitet, Sweden.
    Denk, Thomas
    Åbo Akademi University, Finland.
    Svedung, Inge
    Karlstads universitet, Sweden.
    The typology for allocations of societal risk and safety management tasks at the local governmental level: Framing the current directions in Sweden2009In: Safety Science, ISSN 0925-7535, E-ISSN 1879-1042, Vol. 47, no 5, p. 680-685Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The starting point for this article is the need to develop empirical insights about contemporary societal risk and safety management practice and executive structures. In order to facilitate insights about societal risk and safety management in a Scandinavian welfare context we use Sweden and its local governmental level (municipal) as an empirical frame in this paper. The aim for this article is to analyse how a variety of risk and safety management tasks are divided within the Swedish municipalities. The objectives are to frame the current directions for internal allocations of risk and safety issues by providing an empirically based executive typology and to contemplate the implications and future research needs that arise from that management pattern.The analysis is based on statistical analysis of information from a web-survey with chief officials (n = 1283) with responsibilities for different municipal functions and sectors. In this study the responses to one of the survey questions are used for statistical analysis. The analyzed question focused on the degree that the respondents estimated that their administrative sector or function handled a selection of risk and safety management assignments (n = 45). A factor analysis was applied to identify patterns in the dataset. The analysis resulted in an eight factor solution with a high degree of explained variance (74.3%). The results provide an elementary contribution to the understanding of the current societal risks and safety management directions.

  • 42.
    Karpouzoglou, Timos
    et al.
    Division of History of Science, Technology and Environment, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
    Vij, S.
    Sociology and Development Change, Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands.
    Blomkvist, Pär
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering, Industrial Economics and Organisation.
    Juma, B.
    Department of Geosciences and the Environment, Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.
    Narain, V.
    MDI (Management Development Institute), Gurgaon, India.
    Nilsson, D.
    Division of History of Science, Technology and Environment, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
    Sitoki, L.
    Department of Geosciences and the Environment, Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya.
    Analysing water provision in the critical interface of formal and informal urban water regimes2023In: Water international, ISSN 0250-8060, E-ISSN 1941-1707Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Science and technology studies and urban political ecology have made important contributions to the understanding of water provision in the Global South. In this article we develop insights from these fields with the aim to understand the blurring boundaries of urban water regimes and their power relations mediated by actors, institutions and technology. Furthermore, we explore how urban water regimes can form a critical interface which is a form of institutional–actor space where formal and informal water regimes encounter each other through conflict and cooperation.

  • 43.
    Klang, Nina
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication.
    Lillvist, Anne
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication. Örebro University.
    Pless, Mia
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare.
    Granlund, Mats
    Örebro University.
    The utility of ICF for describing interaction in non-speaking children with disabilities: Caregiver ratings and perceptions2007In: Disability and Rehabilitation, ISSN 0963-8288, E-ISSN 1464-5165, Vol. 26, no 22, p. 1689-1700Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 44.
    Knezevic, Zlatana
    Mälardalen University, School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Health and Welfare.
    A Cry for Care But not Justice: Embodied Vulnerabilities and the Moral Economy of Child Welfare2020In: Affilia, ISSN 0886-1099, E-ISSN 1552-3020, Vol. 35, no 2, p. 231-245Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study explores the pivotal role of the body for political recognition and rights claims in child welfare “moral” interventions. I examine how the bodily figures in child welfare assessments, linking these manifestations to the concept of the moral economy of care. A sample of assessment reports from a Swedish municipality, all addressing violations of children’s bodies or integrity, are used as empirical material. I show how the psychosomatically suffering child is being best “heard” as vulnerable. I also argue that such a moral economy of care silences children’s accounts of gendered and racial injustices. Furthermore, racialized moral divides are indicated when assessments of different child bodies are considered. A concluding remark points to a need for a child welfare moral economy of social justice that responds to structural intersecting injustices in childhoods, including to those of a racialized child welfare and its individualized and symptom-oriented services.

  • 45.
    Kovala, Tommy
    Mälardalen University, School of Business, Society and Engineering, Future Energy Center.
    This electricity price is too high for my household: Why are some households sensitive to the electricity price, when others barely are sensitive at all?2017Conference paper (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    The key-solution for a sustainable electricity system is demand flexibility. If we use technology to distribute the information, demand flexibility could be incentivized by dynamic pricing, so that real problems and costs in the electricity system become transparent for electricity consumers.

    Utilities and electricity retailers have tried to offer such contracts before, but deemed the necessary educative interventions for consumers too expensive and retreated to nominal price competition (Flaim et al., 2013). Using a questionnaire, collecting intentions for demand flexibility, we reveal that lacking knowledge is just one of many areas that could be targeted with interventions.

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  • 46.
    Kulkov, Ignat
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation. Åbo Akademi University, Turku Finland.
    Kulkova, Julia
    Department of Design, School of Arts, Design and Architecture Aalto University Espoo Finland;Chair Management in Innovative Health EDHEC Business School Paris France.
    Rohrbeck, Rene
    EDHEC Business School, Chair for Foresight, Innovation and Transformation 24 Avenue Gustave Delory Roubaix France.
    Menvielle, Loick
    Chair Management in Innovative Health EDHEC Business School Paris France.
    Kaartemo, Valtteri
    Turku School of Economics, Turku Institute for Advanced Studies University of Turku Turku Finland.
    Makkonen, Hannu
    School of Marketing and Communication University of Vaasa, Vaasa Finland.
    Artificial intelligence ‐ driven sustainable development: Examining organizational, technical, and processing approaches to achieving global goals2023In: Sustainable Development, ISSN 0968-0802, E-ISSN 1099-1719Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study presents a comprehensive literature review using a systematic approach to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The systematic review approach was applied to collect and analyze topics, and the literature search was conducted in two stages, encompassing 57 articles that met the research requirements. Our analysis reveals that AI's contribution to sustainability is concentrated within three key areas: organizational, technical, and processing aspects. The organizational aspect focuses on the integration of AI in companies and industries, addressing barriers to implementation and the relationship between companies, partners, and customers. The technical aspect highlights the development of AI algorithms that can address global challenges and contribute to the growth of stability and development in society. The processing aspect emphasizes the internal transformation of companies, their business models, and strategies in response to AI integration. Our proposed conceptual model outlines the essential elements organizations must consider when incorporating AI into their sustainability efforts, such as strategic alignment, infrastructure development, change management, and continuous improvement. By addressing these critical aspects, organizations can harness the potential of AI to drive positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the SDGs. The model serves as a comprehensive framework for organizations seeking to leverage AI for sustainable development, but it should be adapted to individual contexts to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

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  • 47.
    Kusnierz, Alicia
    et al.
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Pettersson, Alexandra
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    En projektgrupps upplevda innovationsklimat: En studie som behandlar det upplevda innovationsklimatet i en projektgrupp vid Eskilstuna Energi och Miljö2012Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Denna studie behandlar det upplevda innovativa arbetsklimatet hos en projektgrupp vid Eskilstuna Energi och Miljö (EEM). För att studera detta har undersökningsledarna använt sig av kvantitativ och kvalitativ undersökningsmetod. Det i form av en enkätundersökning med fem deltagande personer ur projektgruppen och intervjuer med samma fem personer. Det övergripande syftet är att undersöka hur arbetsklimatet upplevts i en projektgrupp vid EEM. Fokus inom studien ligger på in-novation och gruppklimat. Med stöd av teori och empiri byggs kun-skap som är relevant för studien. Utifrån det dras slutsatser och nya kunskaper genereras om projektgruppens upplevda arbetsklimat. En diskussion med förslag på förbättringsområden presenteras i studien samt en återkopplingsmodell. Denna modell ska ge EEM ytterligare kunskap inom området återkoppling och i sin tur ge fler lärdomar gäl-lande organisationens fortsatta projektarbeten i framtiden.

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    En projektgrupps upplevda innovationsklimat
  • 48.
    Lasovan, Ivana
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering.
    Activities and circumstances in business processes for frequent radical innovation: A comparative analysis of corporations in Sweden2020Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Radical innovation is a term with different definitions and divided experiences. From both a theoretical and practical manner, larger organizations seem to perform radical innovation less. This research is further looking into corporation strategies and the dimensions of internal factors of radical innovation. The aim is to find activities and circumstances that can enhance radical innovation and bring more frequent behavior in corporations. The research performs as a comparative study to reveal facilitations and patterns of radical innovation processes in different organizations. This study will compare perspectives of the organizations themselves to both earlier studies and shared insights of an included innovation consultancy firm that is giving their experience on the performance of radical innovation. Likewise, the research will investigate the limitations the organizations find in how and why radical innovations are not as frequent as incremental ones. The outcome of this research is to theoretically provide an alternative approach in the innovation field by researching comparatively. Practically, the research aims to extend knowledge of radical innovation and create a framework that can work as a supportive tool for future business projects and the implementation of more radical innovations.

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  • 49.
    Lindberg, Malin
    et al.
    Luleå tekniska universitet, Sweden.
    Schaeffer, Jennie
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Heikkilä, Mia
    Mälardalen University, School of Education, Culture and Communication, Educational Sciences and Mathematics.
    Socially Innovative Remodelling Of Preschool Facilities2018In: European Public & Social Innovation Review (EPSIR), ISSN 2529-9824, Vol. 3, no 2, p. 1-13Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Despite the prominent role of norms and values in public education policy and practice social innovation studies have rarely investigated how these are converted into practical transformations in the educational sector. The study therefore aims to provide further insight into the impact of contextualized and materialized norms and values in educational social innovation, using a remodeling process of preschool facilities in a Swedish municipality as an illustrating case study. Seeking to ensure equal and inclusive play, learning and development, the studied process exposes the impact of materialized norms and values on enabling and disabling rooms, furniture and materials in the preschool facilities. As such norms and values impact social transformation process regardless of the contextual specificities, the results may be useful also in other preschools in Sweden and internationally.

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    FULLTEXT01
  • 50.
    Lindblom, Simon
    Mälardalen University, School of Innovation, Design and Engineering, Innovation and Product Realisation.
    Collaboration: A Pre-Study2023Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This thesis explores the factors contributing to successful collaboration within the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix frameworks, with a specific focus on the active involvement of students as stakeholders. A qualitative research approach was adopted, utilising interviews, questionnaires, and action research documented in a diary form, to gather data. The study examines the Creative LAB, an innovation lab initiated by students in the Innovation and Design master’s program at Mälardalens University, as a base for the collaborations with which the data is inquired from. The research employs the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix models as theoretical frameworks to understand collaboration dynamics. Phenomenographic analysis was used to categorise and analyse the experiences of collaboration. The interviews and questionnaires, both addressing the same topic, were transcribed, and subjected to systematic extraction and analysis. The findings are presented in the form of categories, supported by direct quotations and perspectives from the respondents. The research diary served as a reflective tool throughout the thesis, documenting and analysing the obtained results and the work conducted within the Creative LAB. It provided valuable insights into the collaboration dynamics, success factors, and the role of students as active stakeholders in the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix models. By capturing observations and personal reflections, the diary contributed to a deeper understanding of the research findings and enhanced the overall validity of the study. One of the projects, WellBot, is also presented as a case study. In summary, this thesis provides insights into the key success factors for collaboration within the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix frameworks, while also highlighting the significant role of students as active stakeholders. The results shed light on the perceptions and experiences of the participants, offering valuable implications for fostering effective collaboration in the context of academia, industry, and society. In the end, success-factors identified within the study is presented, as well as a questionnaire to identify perceptions on potential collaborations. 

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