Two Key Centres

Existing explanations cannot be ignored in using a shared framework without potentially humiliating those depending on them. At the same time, any shared framework cannot be ignored in developing even superficial explanations without appearing to be ignorant. So a channel of influence must be present.

The two Centre draws on very different processes: the CL2-framework is systematic and comprehensive: which suggests it needs to includes factors relevant to plausible explanations. Explanations may well indicate what needs to be modelled and where structure is missing.

The CL1-explanation is focused on plausibility, which suggests it needs to draw on aspects of any widely shared framework. The framework can help explanations be more coherent, consistent and grounded.

CL3_P-underlying polarities is about deep, often implicit, opposing forces in the situation. The CL2_B framework by contrast is a simplified public schema which typically omits cultural, ideological and emotional factors intrinsic to polarization.

Polarization therefore provocatively introduces elements that the framework is ill-equipped to handle. Conversely, the framework will itself provoke those preoccupied with social conflicts generally to reveal how these polarities apply in the situation.

CL3_S-concerns for tensions are pressing and immediate while the CL2_B-shared framework is an abstraction that endures. While any framework must allow for the possibility of tensions, because tensions are universal, there will be a question of how relevant the tensions are to the situation being faced.

In a similar way, when tensions are identified, they can question the sufficiency or even coherence of the shared framework.

The CL2_B framework and the CL4_B-narrative are similar in that both are offered as coherent and comprehensive models. However, the framework is static in nature and commonly general across a variety of situations within a category, while the narrative is dynamic, evolutionary and specific to a particular situation.

The framework gives structure and analytic power to the narrative and indicates its scope, while the narrative provides actual content for the framework's abstractions, generating depth and life.

The CL4_B-narrative remains the primary account of the situation, especially if supported by other Centres, and while there must be a core that remains intact and unchanged, it must accommodate adjustments that flow from differences in context if it is to remain viable.

Context can have a powerful effect on how matters are viewed and what is done, but CL7_B-contextual adaptations have strict limits. They must accommodate the given narrative while ensuring that it remains usable in the particular setting.

CL4_B-narratives to be credible must accord with CL6_S-authoritative reports. That means broadly conforming to their contents, appealing to them, and generally endorsing their significance.

In turn, such reports will be used to judge a narrative and constrain or modify it to ensure it is legitimate and deserves to be supported. Any accepted narrative will therefore be endorsed by the standards.

CL6_P-relevant standardsenable a person to judge, value and ultimately accept, qualify or reject any given CL4_B-narrative. Relevant standards therefore determine consent to the narrative.

Conversely, popular narratives must consent to the application of a diverse variety of principles from many individuals.

The CL5_S-prevailing mindset is a rather generalized outlook on the situation and it needs to confirm that any CL4_B-popular narrative is credible and realistic.

The accepted narrative is a more complicated account of the situation and its evolution. It will be most readily accepted if it confirms the validity of the popular way of thinking about similar situations.

CL5_P-versionsare based on simplifying and re-wording a CL4_B-narrative to suit the person's understanding. So a person will always appeal to the narrative for justification of their version.

Individuals will also use their version of the situation as a basis for affirming any popular narrative and justifying that acceptance.

CL3_P-polarities are socially disturbing and often pushed out of public consciousness. Those individuals aware of polarization and its importance therefore put pressure on any CL4_B-narrative to incorporate and explain their role in the evolution of the situation.

In order for the CL4_B-narrative to be popularly accepted, pressure can be placed on members to keep polarities hidden, softened or re-framed. Individuals who recognize the importance of the polarity are likely to push back against such handling.

CL3_S-tensions refer to disputes and social conflicts that are difficult to ignore. So a CL3_S-narrative will not be persuasive if it does not somehow incorporate them. The narrative is therefore constrained to provide a frame for clarifying their nature, impact, and evolution over time.

However, tensions also constrain the narrative which should be articulated in way that does not worsen tensions in the situations or inflame any of the participants.

This channels was examined above.