Knowledge controversies

Question 1

Causes of knowledge controversies

Answer 1

Scientific dispute gets heated if a lack of consensus gains wider social interest

Question 2

Matters of fact and matters of concern (?;?)

Answer 2

Latour, 2004
Matters of fact = settle controversies as technical matters – review the science and improve public education about the science
Matters of concern = when the knowledge controversy can’t be contained – leads to formation of new publics around the issue

Question 3

Hybrid forums {?;?}

Answer 3

Callon et al 2009
Arise from socio-technical controversies; due to uncertainty
Forum = public open space; groups can discuss
Hybrid = heterogeneous groups; q’s addressed at different levels in a variety of domains
Enrich democracy - explore identities, problems, and options
BUT need procedural rules or risks being manipulated
e.g. no. of groups, laypersons involved from the start etc.
E.G. France ANDRA - responsible for radioactive waste disposal - bury underground
= resident associations, many uncertainties, counter-experts, emergence of new q’s and scenarios
= 1990 gov moratorium on their research — take time exploring options, consultation

Question 4

Competency groups for flooding [?;?]

Answer 4

Whatmore and Landström 2011
Flooding in Pickering
Different types of knowledge put at risk
Included natural and social scientists and locals (10-12)
Meetings, field visits, data collection, online forum
= woody debris dams and earth bunds
–> public a contingent and dynamic outcome of debates; not inert or homogeneous

Question 5

Knowledge controversies [?;?]

Answer 5

Whatmore 2009
Generative events
force reasoning to 'slow down' and give opportunity for new awareness of the issue
Moments of ontological disturbance
require a redistribution of expertise