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Engineering and the Postcolonial: Historical Perspectives and Ethical Practices

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Philosophy of Engineering, East and West

Part of the book series: Boston Studies in the Philosophy and History of Science ((BSPS,volume 330))

Abstract

Can postcolonial methodologies help engineers function more effectively and ethically in a world made up of multiple modernities? This chapter uses the case of Indonesia to explore the ways that postcolonial memories of the past have shaped the interpretation of the significance of technology and engineering, and therefore technological values and identities of both engineers and the postcolonial publics. Furthermore, it asks whether postcolonial methodological interventions analogous to those used by social scientists and medical professionals to improve their own practices may aid engineers. Paying attention to deeper histories and questioning the practice and consequences of silencing are two ways that engineers can strengthen their ability to analyze technology- related conflicts, and to reflect on their relationships with broader publics.

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Correspondence to Suzanne MOON .

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MOON, S. (2018). Engineering and the Postcolonial: Historical Perspectives and Ethical Practices. In: Mitcham, C., LI, B., Newberry, B., ZHANG, B. (eds) Philosophy of Engineering, East and West. Boston Studies in the Philosophy and History of Science, vol 330. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-62450-1_16

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