Applying actor network theory and pragmatist thinking to the process of implementing scenarios

Abstract

This article considers the potential for actor network theory (ANT) to cast new light on scenarios, and how they can make change happen when they are implemented. The goal is to challenge the current dominance of cognitive Intuitive Logic theories, which we find variously wanting. ANT is applied in a hypothetical hierarchical situation composed of two central actors, the dominant planning network and the network to be planned. Their collision generates four hypothetical scenario outputs, only one of which is officially sanctioned, two which might cause instability or turn on the makers and one which needs the support that only ANT can provide. Our tracing of scenario moves needs, though, other pragmatist theory beyond ANT, as well as theories of objects' affect, if a more satisfactory theory of scenario implementation is to be forged.