Science as a Human Endeavour
Three points should be considered when solving complex problems in sustainability and science: (Benjamin P Warner, 2015)
1. sustainability science programs must be INTERDISCIPLINARY in order to increase the scope of its research capabilities.
2. sustainability science research must be applicable to REAL _WORLD problems while contributing to discovery-based science. (sustainability science must not become pigeonholed because solutions to complex problems will likely be innovative.)
3. sustainability science must be integrated into SOCIETY. We cannot begin to solve complex problems without working with the PEOPLE most impacted by them.
Image from http://theconversation.com/sustainability-science-is-a-new-academic-discipline-but-is-it-sustainable-46719
Computational Thinking and Systems Thinking are key to solving complex problems. Breaking the problem down to study the parts is important but more importantly is being able to see how all the parts are related to each other. When we don't see how all the parts are connected we can become lost in the complexity of the problem and concentrate on the parts in isolation. The myopic perspective resulting from science practiced in isolation cannot provide useful solutions to complex problems. It is only when we observe the connections between the parts and look at the whole we can see how to solve complex problems in sustainability science.
Australian Curriculum: Science as a Human Endeavour | Use and influence of science
*Solutions to contemporary issues that are found using science and technology, may impact on other areas of society and may involve ethical considerations*Values and needs of contemporary society can influence the focus of scientific research
See article by Benjamin P Warner Postdoctoral Development Geographer, University of Massachusetts Amherst in
TheConversation
TheConversation
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