Model of interactions between scientific activities and values' contributions to the precautionary principle

• Grant number: 19/10200-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: September 01, 2019
• End date: June 30, 2023
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Philosophy - Epistemology
• Principal Investigator: Pablo Rubén Mariconda
• Grantee: Pedro Bravo de Souza
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas (FFLCH). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 21/13983-9 - Financial conflicts of interest's challenge to precautionary science: the case of pollution from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, BE.EP.DR

Abstract

I aim to discuss the following question: what are Model of interactions between scientific activities and values' (hereafter M-CV) contributions to the precautionary principle? M-CV can be understood by three main theses: values of distinct nature have different roles in scientific activity stages; there are several cognitive attitudes towards theories, and strategic pluralism is justified. In its turn, the Precautionary Principle (henceforth PP) states that if there is a threat for which there is no scientific certainty, a certain action against it is recommended. My hypothesis is that, on the one hand, M-CV can contribute to the debate related to the PP in an elegant way, answering to several objections addressed to it and providing it a foundation; on the other hand, objections that can not be answered by M-CV can be removed by means of a robust definition of PP. To investigate this hypothesis, it will be necessary to pass four research moments. First, to present a definition of PP sensitive to previous definitions objections. Second, to comment, in detail, M-CV, contrasting it with other theoretical models whose object is also the relationship between science and values. Thirdly, to show how to relate M-CV and PP can dismiss several of the objections addressed to the last one, as well as provide it with a foundation. Finally, to propose, within Brazilian context, which form of popular engagement in relation to PP is the most adequate. From such moments, I believe it will be possible to verify this doctoral research hypothesis. Moreover, I think that it can contribute to a greater understanding of PP in Brazil and, especially, to related decision-making processes. (AU)

Scientific publications

(References retrieved automatically from Web of Science and SciELO through information on FAPESP grants and their corresponding numbers as mentioned in the publications by the authors)

PEDRO BRAVO. NAVEGANDO PELO(S) PRINCÍPIO(S) DA PRECAUÇÃO. Kriterion, v. 64, n. 155, p. 329-348, 2023-11-03. (19/10200-3)

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

SOUZA, Pedro Bravo de. Better safe than sorry: from the precautionary principle to precautionary science. 2023. Doctoral Thesis - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas (FFLCH/SBD) São Paulo.