Manufacturing Refused Knowledge in the Age of Epistemic Pluralism: Discourses, Imaginaries, and Practices on the Border of Science

This book explores contemporary practices that challenge science, arguing that it cannot be disregarded as anti-scientism. It examines the processes through which refused knowledge seeks legitimacy, exploring the actors involved and their social worlds. It demonstrates how refused knowledge can be seen as a distinct mode of knowing, employed in response to everyday uncertainties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2024
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This open-access book delves into contemporary practices that challenge scientific knowledge, contending that it cannot be disregarded as a mere resurgence of "anti-scientism." It meticulously examines the processes through which knowledge claims, rejected by established institutions and the scientific community, strive for legitimacy. Adopting an agnostic analytical approach, the book explores the actors involved in these processes and their social worlds, their interactions with epistemic institutions, and the ways in which they enact such refused knowledge in their daily lives. Drawing from a three-year mixed-method research project, this collection showcases how refused knowledge can be recognized as a distinct mode of knowing, employed in response to the uncertainties of everyday life. Consequently, it provides a more profound understanding not only of how refused knowledge gains credibility but also of how knowledge, in general, emerges from specific sociotechnical assemblages.

Introduction:
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the significance of knowledge that has been refused by established institutions and the scientific community. This phenomenon, often referred to as "refused knowledge," encompasses a wide range of ideas, beliefs, and practices that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms and norms. While some may view it as a threat to the integrity of science, others argue that it represents a valuable alternative perspective and a means of addressing the complexities and uncertainties of our world.

The Nature of Refused Knowledge:
Refused knowledge encompasses a diverse array of topics, including alternative medicine, conspiracy theories, environmentalism, and spirituality. What unites these diverse perspectives is their rejection of mainstream scientific authority and their willingness to explore alternative explanations and hypotheses. Refused knowledge often challenges the dominant narratives and power structures that shape our understanding of the world, and it can be seen as a form of resistance against the hegemony of scientific knowledge.

The Challenge to Science:
The challenge posed by refused knowledge is not simply a matter of academic debate. It has significant implications for our understanding of the world and our place in it. Refused knowledge can challenge the authority of scientific institutions, undermine public trust in science, and hinder the progress of scientific research. However, it is important to recognize that refused knowledge is not inherently anti-scientific. Rather, it is a product of the complex interplay between social, cultural, and political factors that shape our understanding of the world.

The Search for Legitimacy:
One of the key aspects of refused knowledge is its search for legitimacy. Refused knowledge seekers often seek to establish their ideas and practices as valid and worthy of consideration. This can involve challenging the authority of scientific institutions, engaging in public debates, and building networks of support. However, the process of seeking legitimacy is often fraught with challenges, including resistance from established institutions, skepticism from the public, and political polarization.

The Role of Actors:
The actors involved in the processes of seeking legitimacy for refused knowledge are diverse and complex. They include individuals, groups, and organizations that challenge mainstream scientific knowledge, as well as those who support and promote it. These actors operate within a range of social worlds, including online communities, alternative media, and grassroots movements. Their interactions with epistemic institutions, such as universities, scientific journals, and government agencies, play a crucial role in shaping the legitimacy of refused knowledge.

The Everyday Lives of Refused Knowledge:
Refused knowledge is not confined to the realm of academia or intellectual discourse. It has significant implications for our everyday lives. For example, alternative medicine practices may be used by individuals to address health concerns that mainstream medicine fails to address. Conspiracy theories may shape our understanding of political events and social movements. Environmentalism may influence our choices about consumption and sustainability.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this open-access book explores contemporary practices that challenge science, arguing that this matter cannot be simply disregarded as a new manifestation of "anti-scientism." It scrutinizes the processes through which knowledge claims, refused by established institutions and the scientific community, seek legitimacy. Assuming an agnostic analytical stance, it explores the actors involved in such processes and their social worlds, their interactions with epistemic institutions, and the ways in which they enact such refused knowledge in their daily lives. Drawing on a three-year mixed-method research project, this collection demonstrates how refused knowledge can be seen as a distinct mode of knowing, employed in response to the uncertainties of everyday life. Thus, it offers a deeper understanding not only of how refused knowledge garners credibility, but also of how knowledge at large – including scientific knowledge – emerges from specific sociotechnical assemblages.

Weight: 425g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819971909
Edition number: 1st ed. 2024