How do we avoid the Matthew effect in real-world laboratories? Selectivity in participatory processes

Abstract

The complexity and dynamics of real-world problems in transdisciplinary real-world laboratory projects require the participation of all directly and indirectly affected population groups in the participation process. All too often, participants come from socio-economically similar milieus (middleclass, male, local) and persons with a migratory background, women, young people, and members of lower income groups are represented rather weakly or not at all. This phenomenon of social selectivity is called the Matthew effect (‘whoever has, will be given’). It describes the effect that socio-economically strong persons are particularly committed to their interests, while interests of those in a (resource-wise) less well-off situation are under-represented. The paper addresses three questions: How can it be ensured, that all population groups are reached during the participation process in real-world laboratories? How can their concerns be heard and involved in it? How can civil society be empowered as co-creators? These questions will be reflected upon on the basis of empirical experience gained in the real-world lab projects Reallabor Schorndorf and Reallabor Altmarkkreis. On the basis of these reflections, recommendations for action for researchers and practitioners are developed and open research questions are derived.