Deconstructing White Imperialist Paradigms in Science: Integrating Interdisciplinary Frameworks into Biological Research
Faculty Mentor
Jessica Allen
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
5-7-2024 9:55 AM
End Date
5-7-2024 10:15 AM
Location
PAT 326
Primary Discipline of Presentation
Biology
Abstract
The value-laden ideological frameworks characteristic of western science limit our ability to explore the intricacies of natural phenomena by prioritizing ideas based on linearity, binaries, anthropocentric hierarchies, and emphasis on productivity. Here, we present alternative frameworks that aim to access scientific discovery from a systems perspective and incorporate interdisciplinary concepts. Drawing from concepts in philosophy and social sciences, we illustrate the application of sympoiesis, process ontology, emergence, and narratives that evoke a ‘nude’—rather than ‘naked’—perception for reframing perspectives on natural systems. We synthesize these ideas to deconstruct topical literature in ecology, health science, and education and make recommendations for use of language established outside of the western scientific lexicon. As white western scientists working towards broadening scientific perspectives, we recognize communities and cultures that the imperialist white supremacist capitalist patriarchy has attempted to marginalize have long presented ways of being that reflect these approaches or are contrary to dominant ideologies. We aim to encourage flexibility and multiplicity of perspectives, highlight and maneuver biases, and emphasize the value of alternative frameworks and their applicability to research, ultimately fostering a dialogue that undermines oppressive systems attempting to suppress diversity of people and ideas in STEM spaces.
Recommended Citation
Lake, Meg; Sharrett, Stephen T.; Larsen, Elaine; Paulsen, Julianna; and Allen, Jessica L., "Deconstructing White Imperialist Paradigms in Science: Integrating Interdisciplinary Frameworks into Biological Research" (2024). 2024 Symposium. 3.
https://dc.ewu.edu/srcw_2024/op_2024/o3_2024/3
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Deconstructing White Imperialist Paradigms in Science: Integrating Interdisciplinary Frameworks into Biological Research
PAT 326
The value-laden ideological frameworks characteristic of western science limit our ability to explore the intricacies of natural phenomena by prioritizing ideas based on linearity, binaries, anthropocentric hierarchies, and emphasis on productivity. Here, we present alternative frameworks that aim to access scientific discovery from a systems perspective and incorporate interdisciplinary concepts. Drawing from concepts in philosophy and social sciences, we illustrate the application of sympoiesis, process ontology, emergence, and narratives that evoke a ‘nude’—rather than ‘naked’—perception for reframing perspectives on natural systems. We synthesize these ideas to deconstruct topical literature in ecology, health science, and education and make recommendations for use of language established outside of the western scientific lexicon. As white western scientists working towards broadening scientific perspectives, we recognize communities and cultures that the imperialist white supremacist capitalist patriarchy has attempted to marginalize have long presented ways of being that reflect these approaches or are contrary to dominant ideologies. We aim to encourage flexibility and multiplicity of perspectives, highlight and maneuver biases, and emphasize the value of alternative frameworks and their applicability to research, ultimately fostering a dialogue that undermines oppressive systems attempting to suppress diversity of people and ideas in STEM spaces.
