Paper short abstract:

The paper agues about the genuine asymmetry between actors in the networks, the ANT notion of 'translation' fails to grasp. Based on science-amateurs at Rojent Astronomical Observatory, it explore the idea of science based on solidarity, mutuality, and on relationships of intercorporeality.

Paper long abstract:

The paper analyses the problem of the resistance and endurance of scientists in the process in scientific research. It outlines the deficiencies of actor-network approach in treating symmetrically the human and non-human actors in the heterogeneous actor-networks of emerging technologies and (radical) scientific discoveries. The paper also question the popular ANT theses about the special role of non-human agencies and artefacts ('hybrid entities') in maintaining stability and durability of the actor-networks.

The paper argues about the existence of genuine asymmetry between actors in the networks, and where in particular situations the human agencies possess properties and reveal type of behaviour the ANT notion of 'translation' fails to grasp. In fact this notion reifies the scientific action to 'expertise' and neglects of the phenomena of endurance and resistance of scientists and engineers in their work. Departing from Steven Shapin arguments about the close link between vocation (calling) and amateurism in the development of modern science, the author explore the idea of science based on solidarity, mutuality, and on relationships of intercorporeality. Some recent studies of amateurs' actions in science (Meyer 2008 and 2012, Callon et all 2009) are discussed, together with original data from participant observation of research practices of professional astronomers and astronomers-amateurs at Bulgarian National Astronomical Observatory at Rojen, Rhodope Mountains.