Short Abstract:

An emerging branch of Humanities looks at knowledge production from an embodied, affective position, alongside rationality. The workshop proposes to use photography to look at research through the lens of care. By means of creativity it aims to lead toward a more ethical approach to STS advancement.

Long Abstract:

Following philosopher Prof. Rosi Braidotti “recognizing the embodied and embedded, relational and affective positions of humans is a form of situated knowledge that enhances both ethical accountability and alternative ways of producing knowledge” (Braidotti 2018). Our workshop positions itself within the discourse around ethical accountability in knowledge production. How would science and technology advancement look like if research were always conducted from a place of ethical consciousness and reciprocal care? To answer this question it is necessary to first admit that we humans are inextricably interconnected with each other not only by opportunistic needs, but also from an intrinsic desire of connection (Tempest, 2023). Therefore it is important that ongoing conversations in STS take into account the enormous impact our emotional and psychic surrounding has on knowledge production. In our workshop, we invite the participants to explore ethics of care by the seemingly trivial act of looking at the world around them through a camera. The lens becomes a filter through which participants are encouraged to place ‘care’ in relation to their close surroundings. What makes them feel good? When do they experience a connection? By inciting the act of recording these embodied responses and later discussing them with the group, one becomes more conscious of the emotional twines that inevitably link us to the objects of our scrutiny. To introduce the topic, visual artist Diego Reindel will give a presentation on his recent work ‘The Gut-Knowing: Transformation Without a Blueprint’ where he employs photography to heal the broken connection with his body and the society around him. We are able to host a group of 10-–15 people in one 90-minute session. The participants will need a (phone) camera; the activity will ideally take place outdoors. A room with projector and speakers will be needed for the presentation (30 min).