Degrowth and ICT, Connections and Contradictions: A Conceptual Framework and Attitude Study

Abstract

In this paper we present a conceptual framework for classification of research concerning degrowth and ICT. The need for this framework stems from a lack of research uniting the two concepts on a conceptual level. In order to conceptualize this relationship, we look at common themes and topics in state-of-the-art literature. We combine this with an attitude study and a mapping study. The attitude study consists of focus groups, expert interviews and a survey based on the Q-sort method. It serves to provide context to the conceptual relationship between degrowth and ICT, as well as important directions for future lines of research. The mapping study consists of populating the conceptual frame- work by classifying relevant papers based on the developed method. The results from both studies are analyzed and synthesized in order to provide a comprehensive overview on the current state of the art, including the attitudes of people concerning degrowth and ICT. Highlights from among our results include recommendations for successful imple- mentation of degrowth and ICT projects, alongside a general warning on the inherent connection and contradiction between using ICT to implement degrowth principles, and degrowing ICT.