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Missing the (question) mark? What is a turn to ontology?
Social Studies of Science
|October 20, 2015
Summary
This study clarifies the ontological turn in science and technology studies, differentiating it from social constructivism. It emphasizes careful use of
Area of Science:
- Science and Technology Studies (STS)
- Anthropology
- Philosophy of Science
Background:
- The 2013 Special Issue explored the 'ontological turn' in STS, shifting focus from epistemology to ontology and the concept of enactment.
- Critiques of the 'ontological turn' argue it lacks distinction from social constructivism, warns against generic use of 'ontology', and finds 'turns' language restrictive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reply to critiques of the 'ontological turn' in STS.
- To analyze the critiques' varying commitments to circumspection regarding objective reality and reification.
- To differentiate STS's 'it could be otherwise' from anthropology's 'it actually is otherwise' in multinaturalist contexts.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of the 'ontological turn' in STS.
- Engagement with critiques regarding social constructivism and the term 'ontology'.
- Comparative analysis using overlapping discussions in anthropology.
Main Results:
- The critiques of the 'ontological turn' reveal differing stances on objectivity and reification.
- The language of 'turns' can impose limitations on STS research.
- Distinguishing between 'it could be otherwise' (STS) and 'it actually is otherwise' (multinaturalism) is crucial.
Conclusions:
- The 'ontological turn' in STS requires careful conceptualization and application.
- Critiques highlight the need for nuanced understanding of ontological commitments in scientific and technological studies.
- Understanding ontological diversity, particularly in relation to anthropology, enriches STS scholarship.
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