Reinterpret 4As framework of energy security from the perspective of human security – an analysis of China’s electric vehicle (EV) development

Abstract

Candidate's Surname / Family Name: YUAN Candidate's Forenames: BING Candidate for the Degree of PhD Full title of thesis: Reinterpret 4As framework of energy security from the perspective of human security -an analysis of China's electric vehicle (EV) development Summary:This research addresses two issues: expanding the understanding of human security with the case of China's electric vehicle (EV) development and examining the human security implications of China's EV development. This research adopts an online ethnographic method to record personal driving forces and barriers to China's electric vehicle (EV) uptake through experiences shared by ordinary Chinese people. Theoretically, this research provides evidence for the applicability of the broad human security approach in energy security analysis through the case of China's EV development. By reinterpreting the 4As framework (availability, affordability, accessibility, and acceptability), this research challenges the current understanding of human security by demonstrating that threats to human security touch not only the most vulnerable but also people living in well-developed regions in the face of the lasted technological transformation. This research enriches the understanding of human security by exploring how it has been adapted to the Chinese social and political context. Drawing on the insights from ontological security, this research emphasises the necessity of incorporating the subjective dimension in human security analysis to capture subjective feelings in everyday security. This research contributes empirically to identifying human security implications of China's EV development. Informed by the flexible interpretation of security agency offered by the broad human security approach, this research demonstrates that apart from the state's dominant position as the primary security provider, other players, such as carmakers, also play an important role in shaping people's perceptions of how secure EVs are. Recognising that misoperations of an automobile can cause serious physical harm to both those on board and other road users, this research argues that ordinary people should not be only considered as the object of protection but also as the agent with the power to exert influence on the security implications of the new technology.VI DECLARATION