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Critical materialism: science, technology, and environmental sustainability
1University of Oregon.
Sociological Inquiry
|August 28, 2010
Summary
Environmental problems require more than just technological fixes. A critical materialist approach is needed to understand science
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Sociology of Science
- Philosophy of Science
Background:
- Divergent views exist on the link between science, technology, and environmental issues.
- Technological optimism posits technical solutions, often overlooking socio-political factors.
- Postmodernist views critique science as oppressive, potentially denying environmental realities.
Observation:
- Technological optimism ignores power structures driving environmental degradation.
- Postmodernist anti-realism can unintentionally hinder environmental protection efforts.
- Both optimistic and postmodernist stances are inadequate for addressing environmental crises.
Findings:
- The study critiques both technologically optimistic and postmodernist perspectives on environmental problems.
- It argues that both views undermine effective solutions to environmental crises.
- A critical materialist stance is proposed as a more effective framework.
Implications:
- Adopting a critical materialist approach is crucial for understanding and solving environmental problems.
- This stance acknowledges the value of natural science while critically examining its social context.
- Challenging elite manipulation of science is essential for environmental protection.
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