BETWEEN DEFINING AND SPREADING SOLUTION'S STATEMENTS. THE INFLUENCE OF DISCOURSE IN 'ACTION' IN A FRENCH POLICY CHANGE

By using an empirical study of the implementation of a tramway in Paris, the article assesses the influence of discursive practices in decision-making. Furthermore, it highlights three dimensions of a discourse in 'action' which plays a key role: 1/ as a definitional and analytical practice to produce meaning and shape a 'coherent' statement; 2/ as a practice of persuasion to propagate this statement and structure a discursive coalition; 3/ as a conflicting power practice to redefine the topography of positions. The policy-making process, understood as the analysis of games of languages, actors, and positions, must be considered as a major political activity during which a government tries to put order in society. Adapted from the source document.