Paper short abstract:

The #WeDoSTS movement brings to light practices that, unfortunately, are far too frequent in academia. This paper explores what allied movements are doing to change the way that we do STS in different academic settings.

Paper long abstract:

Relational theories of society focus on the way in which society is recreated in each encounter. STS scholars often work with these relational approaches when studying assemblages of experts, citizens and professionals. Only recently have STS scholars begun to turn their reflexive and relational understanding of social construction to the places where the social sciences (including STS) are made. We aim to add to this body of research, and the #WeDoSTS movement, by exploring spaces of encounter where the authors have witnessed and experienced bullying and other forms of unprofessional behaviour. Rather than focusing on the situations of abuse, this paper explores the measures taken by individuals and organizations to respond to the instances and to ensure that new situations do not reproduce the abusive relations. Our analysis reflects upon the materiality of each situation and the new rules of exchange that have been introduced in the situations. We draw lessons from the vibrant debates around “equity, diversity and inclusion”, from the ‘third-sector of research’ and responsible research and innovation. Our contribution aims to analyse the diversity of ways that social sciences are done in constructive ways and offer ideas for how we might do STS differently.