Moralization in Policy Narratives: Insights From the Politics of Climate Change and Public Health

This recent article in Policy Studies Journal examines how politicians use moral arguments based on beliefs about what is morally “right” and “wrong” to build support for public policies. Focusing on debates in Germany about climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, the research shows that political parties frame their messages differently depending on their political ideology and whether they are in government or opposition. Some use strong moral language to rally supporters, while others take a more cautious approach. The article highlights how moral storytelling shapes policy debates. It shows how political actors appeal to citizens’ fundamental moral values to generate both support for and opposition to climate policy. Overall, the article suggests that policy research can better explain political communication by paying closer attention to moral values and how they are used by political actors.