Monday, August 07, 2006
Towards a sociology of modelling
We're particularly interested in the sociology of models and measurement. Which models are used when, why and by whom? What ethical, social and scientific assumptions are built in? A better understanding of models might lead to interventions with more effective outcomes. However this begs the question 'whose definition of success?'..... How are publics in democracies engaged in science?
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Just came across this quote in Shove (2003) Comfort, Cleanliness & Conveniance "By definition, forecasts and projections make assumptions about the extent and character of future consumption. Also by definition, proposed policy responses imply that projected trends can be changed and modified. In this way they carry with them an understanding of basic 'needs' and vairable 'wants' and of standards of living that might be compatible with a sustainable future. but which elements of anticipated demands should be taken as read, which are negotiable, by whom and on what basis?" (p.5-6)
Interesting idea. Model results indicating undesirable future scenarios are often used to argue for particular policies that would mitigate or shift the future to a more desirable one. But if the conditions leading to a model result are taken as given, then who are we to propose that they can be changed. And if they are not given, then how does that change the way we view the model itself?
Perhaps I am just rephrasing the quotation...
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