Philosophy of science for sustainability science

Michiru Nagatsu, Taylor Davis, C. Tyler DesRoches, Inkeri Koskinen, Miles MacLeod, Milutin Stojanovic, Henrik Thorén

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

35 Scopus citations

Abstract

Sustainability science seeks to extend scientific investigation into domains characterized by a distinct problem-solving agenda, physical and social complexity, and complex moral and ethical landscapes. In this endeavor, it arguably pushes scientific investigation beyond its usual comfort zones, raising fundamental issues about how best to structure such investigation. Philosophers of science have long scrutinized the structure of science and scientific practices, and the conditions under which they operate effectively. We propose a critical engagement between sustainability scientists and philosophers of science with respect to how to engage in scientific activity in these complex domains. We identify specific issues philosophers of science raise concerning current sustainability science and the contributions philosophers can make to resolving them. In conclusion, we reflect on the steps philosophers of science could take to advance sustainability science.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1807-1817
Number of pages11
JournalSustainability Science
Volume15
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2020

Keywords

  • Interdisciplinarity
  • Methodology of sustainability science
  • Philosophy of science
  • Transdisciplinarity
  • Values in science

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Global and Planetary Change
  • Health(social science)
  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Ecology
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Nature and Landscape Conservation
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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