Abstract

PADAWER, ANA. TRUST IN KNOWLEDGE PRODUCTION: A STUDY OF A SOCIO-TECHNICAL NETWORK FOR DEVELOPING CASSAVA STARCH-BASED MATERIALS IN MISIONES (ARGENTINA). Maguare [online]. 2023, vol.37, n.2, pp.23-57.  Epub Apr 02, 2024. ISSN 0120-3045.  https://doi.org/10.15446/mag.v37n2.110648.

In this study, I examine the role of trust in a socio-technical network that develops biomaterials from cassava starch (e.g., edible films, pre-gels, and matrices for controlled release of fertilizers) in Misiones province, Argentina. While the development of biomaterials in techno-scientific contexts is usually perceived as an emotionless cognitive endeavour, my ethnographic research reveals how trust relationships play a central role. Trust relationships build interpersonal connections based on mutual recognition of diverse technical abilities. These trust relationships also enable the network's endurance during challenging socio-economic, political, and institutional periods; they also pragmatically prevent tensions arising from divergent interests.

Keywords : abilities; laboratories; cassava; techniques.

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