EXPLORING EFFECTIVE AND ETHICAL NUDGES IN HOMELAND SECURITY

Abstract

Nudge theory is the popular new kid on the policy block promising low-cost, effective, liberty-preserving interventions that promote individuals’ welfare. However, effective nudges do not appear to be prevalent in homeland security relative to its popularity. This thesis looks for such through a systematic and gray literature search. It further explores what makes nudges generally effective and whether such principles can be used in creating effective nudges in homeland security contexts. This is accomplished by exploring popular nudge frameworks, analyzing meta-analyses and scoping reviews, and discussing known nudge limitations. Lastly, assuming homeland security nudges can be effective, an exploration of significant ethical issues is provided. The resultant findings support the lack of popularity for effective nudges in homeland security. However, the exploration of nudge effectiveness generally gives reason to believe homeland security nudges can be effective (and this thesis provides a four-question framework to help guide the creation of such). Further, this thesis finds legitimate debate surrounds general nudge ethicality, but develops a six-question framework for homeland security practitioners to help determine whether their proposed intervention is both a nudge and ethical. Ultimately, this thesis should be used as a foundation from which to carefully explore and potentially create, implement, and test homeland security nudges.Civilian, Department of Homeland SecurityApproved for public release. Distribution is unlimited