Top-level decisions through public deliberation on the internet: evidence from the evolution of Java governance

Abstract

This study found internet-enabled public deliberation having a direct impact on top-level decisions and it identified institutional mechanisms by which this occurs. Most government initiatives aimed at promoting online deliberation all short of expectations. The participatory governance model developed in this study presents design and process parameters along which more interactive and engaging online experiences can be modeled. The applicability of the propositions is demonstrated by systematically collecting online data and analyzing public deliberation during the evolution of Java governance. Self-selection of participants and opposing views, mutual adjustment, and high influence combined with incremental decision-making were shown to be critical for institutionalizing a broadly supported governance approach.