Scientific discourse: S . solutions

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Anthropocene, intersectionality, delay…these terms tell you something, of course! But sometimes we use these words without really knowing what they mean. So in Words of Science, we go back to the history and meaning of these keywords with researchers able to enlighten us.

Today’s episode is devoted to solutions, and more precisely to technological solutions. In other words, the fact of thinking that technical solutions, often high-tech, will solve our political problems, especially environmental and climatic ones. Behind these terms there is a great philosophical debate about what is expected of technology and innovation. Debates, disagreements and misunderstandings are growing in France as political elites and large industrial groups tend to push for technological solutions. In contrast, the population itself, in opinion polls, seems increasingly skeptical of this approach.

To talk about this, we meet with Jennifer Galley, Head of Environment at conversation, philosopher of science Fabrice Flipault, professor at the Institut des Mines Telecom BS, attached to the Laboratory of Social and Political Change at the University of Paris.

During this program, you will hear excerpts from a file Emmanuel Macron’s speech on October 12, 2021 to announce the “France 2030” plan. A plan should respond to the vulnerabilities revealed by the Covid crisis, accelerate environmental transformation and provide a “useful viewpoint” of technology. This speech illustrates the debate about technological solutions well.

Good listening!

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