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Research article - Peer-reviewed, 2022

Bridge over troubled water: managing compatibility and conflict among thought collectives in sustainability science

Soininen, Niko; Raymond, Christopher M.; Tuomisto, Hanna; Ruotsalainen, Laura; Thoren, Henrik; Horcea-Milcu, Andra-Ioana; Stojanovic, Milutin; Lehtinen, Sanna; Mazac, Rachel; Lamuela, Carlos; Korpelainen, Noora; Vainio, Annukka; Toivanen, Reetta; McPhearson, Timon; Nagatsu, Michiru

Abstract

Sustainability transformations call forth new forms and systems of knowledge across society. However, few tools and processes exist for promoting dialogue among different interests and normative stances in knowledge co-creation. In this article, we build on the notion of thought collectives to argue that understanding and moderating normative tensions are necessary if sustainability science is to provide successful solutions. Drawing on an analysis of the normative tensions between rival high-tech and low-tech thought collectives in the mobility and food production sectors, we discuss three strategic approaches: applying common evaluative frameworks, building contextual convergence and embracing complexity. We argue that these strategies indicate a need to distinguish different kinds of reflexivity in managing tensions among thought collectives. As a practical conclusion, we establish sets of reflexive questions to help sustainability scientists deploy the knowledge management strategies discussed.

Keywords

Thought collective; Sustainability science; Research management; Reflexivity; Mobility; Food production

Published in

Sustainability Science
2022, volume: 17, number: 1, pages: 27-44
Publisher: SPRINGER JAPAN KK

Authors' information

Soininen, Niko
University of Eastern Finland
Raymond, Christopher
University of Helsinki
Raymond, Christopher
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Landscape Architecture, Planning and Management
Tuomisto, Hanna
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)
Tuomisto, Hanna
University of Helsinki
Ruotsalainen, Laura
University of Helsinki
Thoren, Henrik
Lund University
Horcea-Milcu, Andra-Ioana
Babes Bolyai University from Cluj
Stojanovic, Milutin
University of Helsinki
Lehtinen, Sanna
Aalto University
Lehtinen, Sanna
University of Helsinki
Mazac, Rachel
University of Helsinki
Lamuela, Carlos
University of Helsinki
Korpelainen, Noora
University of Helsinki
Vainio, Annukka
University of Helsinki
Toivanen, Reetta
University of Helsinki
McPhearson, Timon
Stockholm University
McPhearson, Timon
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
McPhearson, Timon
The New School
Nagatsu, Michiru
University of Helsinki

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG2 End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture
SDG17 Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
SDG12 Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

UKÄ Subject classification

Social Sciences Interdisciplinary

Publication Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11625-021-01068-w

URI (permanent link to this page)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/114928