"Policy Ultra-Briefs" – Building New Bridges Between Research and Practice
03.11.2025
Political actors often face intense time pressure when making decisions on complex issues. Recognizing that policymakers frequently lack the capacity for in-depth research, scientists from the field of psychology and related behavioural sciences have launched a new series of concise summaries called “Policy Ultra-Briefs” to provide easy access to scientific findings.
This new German-language series aims to foster a stronger dialogue between science and politics, providing parliaments, ministries, and journalists with the social and behavioural science expertise needed to build a sustainable society.
The first issue, focusing on climate action, will launch on October 30th and feature twelve articles. From understanding why people support climate policies to designing effective, communication on the health impacts of extreme heat, and combating disinformation, the articles will address key challenges and opportunities to advance socio-ecological transformations.
The new format offers clear, concise information in an accessible style. Each article is written by experts, based on the latest behavioural science research, and peer-reviewed for accuracy. A color-coded evidence scale ensures transparency, while a focus on practical topics provides concrete solutions for action.
RIFS scientist Jean-Henri Hutttarsch co-authored and edited the new series, contributing to two editions: “Acceptance of climate action measures: Psychological strategies for effective policy design and communication” and “Hidden consent: public support for climate action is systematically underestimated”.
The Policy Ultra-Briefs will be published at regular intervals on the homepage "Policy Ultra-Briefs aus der Psychologie und angrenzenden Verhaltenswissenschaften".
“The social and behavioural sciences have generated many insights that offer valuable guidance for addressing the major societal challenges of our time”, explain the editors Prof. Wilhelm Hofmann (Ruhr University Bochum), Ann-Katrin Hosch (University of Bremen), Jean-Henri Huttarsch, Prof. Ellen Matthies (Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg), Prof. Eva-Lotta Brakemeier, (University of Greifswald) and Prof. Cornelia Betsch (Institute for Planetary Health Behaviour). Ellen Matthies (Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg), Prof. Eva-Lotta Brakemeier, (University of Greifswald) and Prof. Cornelia Betsch (Institute for Planetary Health Behaviour at the University of Erfurt) – "with the new Policy Ultra-Briefs, we want to build new bridges between research and practice."
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