A Phenomenolgoical Approach to Participatory Processes in Space Policy Development between Locals and Elites: Towards the Space Benefits Hierarchy (SBH) Tool

This research explores practical ways to address epochē (the practice of setting aside pre-existing assumptions) in policy development. Inspired by the application of Husserl’s phenomenology to legal interpretation, which reveals how law shapes social experience, the study distinguishes between “elites” who envision space futures and local communities left out of the policy process. By focusing on these varied experiences, it aims to identify patterns that support equitable space benefits distribution. Using participatory systems dynamics modeling to encourage bracketing in policy development, the research offers a novel approach to creating inclusive space governance frameworks, through the Space Benefits Hierarchy (SBH) framework.