DÜRTME TEORİSİNİN DAVRANIŞSAL KAMU POLİTİKASI ARACI OLARAK KULLANILMASI: ESKİŞEHİR TEPEBAŞI BELEDİYESİ ÖRNEĞİ

Abstract

The nudge theory, as a behavioral public policy tool, has gained a significant place in public administration in recent years, emerging as an innovative approach aimed at influencing individuals' decision-making environments. This thesis endeavors to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of the nudge theory as a tool for implementing behavioral public policy within local governments. The study begins by discussing the theoretical foundations of nudge theory, addressing concepts such as choice architecture and liberal paternalism. It then reviews successful nudge applications in countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia. In this context, the development and current state of behavioral public policies in Turkey are analyzed, along with an evaluation of worldwide applications. Findings indicate that nudging applications have led to positive outcomes in environmental policies (green nudges). This research focuses on two green nudge interventions implemented within the boundaries of Eskişehir Tepebaşı Municipality, a local government entity in Turkey, aiming to promote behavior change through a warning timer design encouraging water conservation and a voting method intended to prevent cigarette littering. These field studies analyze how societal behaviors may be influenced through the application of nudge theory. The results demonstrate that nudge instruments can serve as cost-effective and efficient policy tools; nevertheless, it is crucial to optimize the design processes in alignment with the characteristics of the target audience. To conclude, the research shows that the nudge theory can be more widely applied by local governments, demonstrating the significant potential of behavioral public policies to enhance the efficiency of public services. In this regard, the study offers several policy recommendations tailored to local governments.