Local Knowledge and Scientific Perceptions: Questions of Validity in Environmental Knowledge

摘要: Local ecological knowledge has been subject to a great deal of debate in recent decades. Early strands this literature could be easily classified into two camps – one which purports the adaptive logic and scientific validity local knowledge, other seeks expose its flaws by illustrating divergence from understandings. While acknowledging subsequent attempts question dichotomy (Agrawal (Development Change 26:413–439, 1995); Long Sociology: Actor Perspectives. London New York: Routledge, 2001); Pottier et al. (Negotiating Knowledge: Power Identity Development. London: Pluto Press, 2003)), chapter maintains distinction as means exploring claims diverse bodies knowledge. It does through series case studies on biophysical processes that have much misunderstanding both public spheres. are juxtaposed ways. By highlighting for understandings diverge but is nevertheless functionally sound, capacity illustrated. As shown, empirical foundations knoweldge may found even behind purportedly “erroneous” perceptions cause effect. Secondly, exposing subjectivities certain processes, grounding most “objective” perceptual political biases Case shifting agriculture, watershed function, challenge our predictive capacities help illustrate “perceptual” science. The intention neither discredit nor place undue emphasis merits ways knowing, rather unfair value judgements leveraged against latter historically call more playing field politics environmental