Conducting sustainability research in the anthropocene: toward a relational approach

• DOI: 10.1007/s11625-024-01510-9
• Publication Date: 2024-05-24T17:02:08Z
• Authors: Jessica Böhme; Eva-Maria Spreitzer; Christine Wamsler
• Keywords: Anthropocene; Sustainability science

Abstract Scholars and practitioners are urgently highlighting the need to apply a relational approach effectively address societal crises. At same time, little is known about associated challenges, there advice regarding how operationalize this in sustainability science. Against background, article explores we can break out of our current paradigms approaches, instead thinking, being, acting way conduct research. To achieve this, systematically list all major research phases, assess possible pathways for integrating paradigm each step. We show that moving toward requires us methodically question redefine existing theories change, concepts, instance by combining abductive reasoning, first-person inquiries, decentering human through critical complexity theory. Challenging mainstream thought, daring ask different questions step crucial ultimately shift scientific norms systems. Hence, offer catalog may help integrate into process, as tool transforming research, education practice. Finally, highlight importance further develop refine outcomes.