Comprehensive Guide to Environmental Policy, Economics, and Climate Action

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to environmental policy, corporate governance, and economic tools discussed in the lecture notes.

Rational Actor Model

Assumes that individuals and groups act rationally by aggregating decisions based on complete information, pursuing self-interest to maximize utility.

Bureaucratic Model

Posits that unelected officials have significant control over information, interpretation of laws, and policy implementation, often aligning with political agendas.

Classical Pluralism

Explains policy outcomes as the result of bargaining among diverse interest groups, with elected officials mediating these interactions.

Elite Influence

Refers to the significant control exerted by economic elites over policy through campaign fundraising, lobbying, and institutional mechanisms.

Iron Triangle

A closed loop among interest groups, legislative committees, and regulatory agencies that reinforces industry-favorable policies.

Super PACs

Political action committees that can raise unlimited sums from individuals, corporations, and unions, often leading to minimal transparency in political spending.

Framing Effect

The phenomenon wherein the way information is presented influences public perception and attitudes toward policies.

Stakeholder Model

A governance approach recognizing that corporations should serve broader interests beyond just shareholders, including employees and the environment.

Corporate Governance

The system of rules, practices, and processes by which a firm is directed and controlled, focusing on stakeholder versus shareholder interests.

Carbon Tax

A financial charge on carbon emissions aimed at encouraging reductions in greenhouse gas outputs.

Cap-and-Trade

An environmental policy tool that allows companies to buy and sell allowances for emissions, influencing reduction strategies.

Misinformation Campaigns

Strategic efforts to mislead the public, often used by industries to manipulate opinion and delay regulation.

Environmental Movement

A social and political movement aiming to protect the environment and promote sustainability, which has evolved over time in response to various challenges.

Deepfake Technology

AI-generated synthetic media that can be manipulated to create realistic but fabricated content, posing risks to information integrity.

Regulatory Reforms

Changes made to legislation or policy designed to improve governance, transparency, and accountability in various sectors.