Environmental Justice and the Pursuit of Science

Abstract

Peplow will talk about the situation facing the indigenous and tribal people in Suriname. He will introduce the concept of environmental justice as it applies to resource development, indigenous rights, and the ideology of scientific research. Peplow will argue that scientists have an obligation to include indigenous and tribal communities in the design, execution, and analysis of research. This simple act engages the tribal and indigenous people in the process, empowers them to act and speak on their own behalf, and promotes self-determination. He will talk about the personal responsibility of scientists working in this setting and consumers who are driving the whole process.