2018 Conference

Poster Presentation

In the United States today, there is a growing mistrust in the evidence and principles brought forth by scientific research. Issues around climate and environmental change aside recent contradictory claims in food and nutrition research, health and safety of pesticide use in agriculture, and of the introduction of genetically engineered seeds into the environment, all contribute to the debate about the integrity and veracity of science as a trusted arbitrator for social good codified in social policy. Presented here are historical roots of three debates as they emerged in early 20^th century agricultural research: 1) risks versus benefits of agrochemical use; 2) the efficacy of “modern” agricultural practices versus an agroecological approach to produce sustainably sufficient yields of food crops to feed growing populations; and 3) the impact of climatic and environmental change on sustainable livelihood. These roots of these debates are layered within an environmental, agricultural, and cultural history of two valleys in Mexico. By illustrating tangles of both confusion and consensus often encountered in scientific research, this account is presented from the perspective of raising issues inherent in risk communication to the public and seeks to broaden understanding complex biogeochemical and ecological relationships supporting the health, safety, and sustainability of our most essential resources. The intent of this poster presentation, combined with computer graphics, is to stimulate public discussion and understanding of the scientific processes underlying social policy.

Inclusion of dichotomous perspectives within the scientific debates presented here, imply an inclusion and understanding of social and cultural perspectives that, in turn, supports the legitimacy of public policy.