The ethical and social significance of NAM terminology and definitions

Definitions for new approach methodologies (NAMs) are highly varied. We argue that current efforts to clarify and harmonize these definitions have paid insufficient attention to their ethical and social significance. Because the choice of definitions influences which methods receive the most policy attention and funding, these definitions are ethically and socially value-laden. To address this issue, we propose three strategies: (1) employing broad definitions that are compatible with multiple values in contexts where the most important values have not been specified; (2) promoting deliberation among stakeholders in an effort to clarify which values should guide future NAM definitions; and (3) aligning NAM definitions with the values of particular initiatives and organizations when their values are clear.