Dr Michel Wahome presents a wide-ranging critique of the “research for development” (R4D) model in science and technology policy, with special emphasis on its assumptions about innovation and progress. The deepest concerns we should have with this widely used model, she argues, is its deep faith the ability of science alone to solve social problems. The over-emphasis on science and technology alone is misguided. Alternatives - grounded in meaningful engagement, transdisciplinarity and decolonial practice - are available that deliver positive results.
Michel researches technoscientific knowledge and research production in Global South contexts, and the interaction with prevailing ideas about development and technoscientific progress.
This episode is the audio from a talk in the STS Research Seminar series from December 2021. It was recorded via Zoom, and this recording features only the speaker’s presentation. Powerpoint slides are available for download separately.
Featuring
Speaker: Dr Michel Wahome, Lecturer in Science, Technology, and Society
https://iris.ucl.ac.uk/iris/browse/profile?upi=MWAHO83
Host: Professor Jack Stilgoe, Professor in Science Policy
https://ucl.ac.uk/sts/stilgoe
Host: Professor Joe Cain, Professor in History and Philosophy of Biology
https://ucl.ac.uk/sts/cain
Music credits
“Rollin At 5,” by Kevin MacLeod
https://filmmusic.io/song/5000-rollin-at-5
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Ecossaise in E-flat (WoO 86) by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/3700-ecossaise-in-e-flat-woo-86-
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Production information
Editing and post-production by Professor Joe Cain.
Podcast information
“WeAreSTS” is a production of the Department of Science and Technology Studies (STS) at University College London (UCL). To find out more, and to leave feedback about the show, visit us online:
https://ucl.ac.uk/sts/podcast
STS Students and staff also can find on the website information about how to get involved with our programme.
“WeAreSTS” producer is Professor Joe Cain.
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