Science and its political uses: a reflection on Evidence-Based Policies

A ciência e seus usos na política: uma reflexão sobre a Política Baseada em Evidências

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36920/esa-v26n2-4

Abstract

This article discusses the limits and possibilities of utilizing science as a basis for policy decision making. Based on 28 interviews, it analyzes the means by which these social actors involved with the elaboration of three public policies for biodiversity conservation in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ, Brazil) make use of scientific knowledge. At least four configurations of interrelations between the scientific and policy realm were identified: (1) when science serves as the technical basis for policy decision making; (2) when the resort to science is intermediated by technical understanding which “translates” scientific knowledge; (3) when scientific knowledge is dismissed as not corresponding to hegemonic political interests; (4) when science is also perceived as apolitical field of dispute. Results contribute towards developing a critique of linearity in the formulation of public policies based on scientific evidence.

CARNEIRO, Maria José; ROSA, Teresa da Silva. A ciência e seus usos na política: uma reflexão sobre a Política Baseada em Evidências. Estudos Sociedade e Agricultura, jun. 2018, v. 26, n. 2, p. 331-352, ISSN 2526-7752.

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Author Biographies

  • Maria José Carneiro, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Brasil

    Doutora em Antropologia Social e professora titular do Programa de Pós-Graduação de Ciências Sociais em Desenvolvimento, Agricultura e Sociedade da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (CPDA/UFRRJ) e bolsista CNPq. E-mail: mjtcarneiro@gmail.com.

  • Teresa da Silva Rosa, Universidade Vila Velha (UVV), Brasil

    Doutora em Socioeconomia do Desenvolvimento e professora titular do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sociologia Política da Universidade de Vila Velha (UVV-ES). E-mail: tsrosaprof@yahoo.com.br.

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Published

2018-06-01

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 2: Estudos Sociedade e Agricultura (june to september 2018)

Section

Articles (continuous flow)

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