Paper short abstract:

Using qualitative, participatory methods, this PhD examines valuation around two bean varieties in France, and their respective multi-actor networks. Whilst these two beans pertain to a common species, they are genetically diverse, and can therefore provide an interesting intra-species comparison for the valuation of cultivated biodiversity.

Paper long abstract:

The preservation of biodiversity is politically recognized as a major social and environmental issue, and as a pillar of food system transformation. However, biodiversity loss, both wild and cultivated, continues to take place. This leads to question the extent and ways in which biodiversity is valued in society by different actors. This PhD work seeks to contribute to the emerging research field of biodiversity valuation and values, and more specifically cultivated biodiversity, by drawing on theories and concepts of STS and economic sociology. Valuation is considered here as a fundamentally social practice, and as a central feature of market-making. Using qualitative, participatory methods, valuation is studied within two emerging multi-actor networks around two "local" bean varieties. Although each case is contextually and historically situated, two dimensions are simultaneously examined in each : (1) the valuation process itself, as inextricably tied to the types of actors which compose the networks and the social relations built between them, and (2) the types of value(s), both economic and non-economic, embedded in the market-making process. Whilst these two beans pertain to a common species, they are genetically diverse, and therefore provide an interesting comparison, shedding light on synergies and differences between the two valuation processes. Some guiding questions are : How are networks around these two varieties constructed, and which values are collectively taken into account (and neglected) in the market-formation process ? Will each variety bring about distinct values and market configurations ? What can these differences tell us about biodiversity valuation ?