Exploring how expertise erodes across research, NGOs, policy, and advisory work — and how systems, incentives, and formats shape what we know, reinforce bias, and disconnect knowledge from reality.
Interesting. You may have published the next piece so I shall go and read!
I think we can create opportunities for new knowledge and co-construct new meaning through participative interventions …and by moving away from the “expert” label, embracing the “not knowing” and allowing the space for it.
And yes, I completely agree with what you’re pointing to. Creating space for not knowing, moving beyond the “expert” role, and working through participative approaches - all of this is essential.
What I’m trying to focus on in the next piece, though, is a slightly different layer. Not so much the approaches themselves (participation, storytelling, translation, etc.), but the systems and infrastructures that make them possible and managable..
But what’s described here is more of a systemic perspective - not only on academia, but on any knowledge-driven industry and any form of institutionalized expertise.
Interesting. You may have published the next piece so I shall go and read!
I think we can create opportunities for new knowledge and co-construct new meaning through participative interventions …and by moving away from the “expert” label, embracing the “not knowing” and allowing the space for it.
Thank you, really glad this resonated.
The next piece is coming on Tuesday.
And yes, I completely agree with what you’re pointing to. Creating space for not knowing, moving beyond the “expert” role, and working through participative approaches - all of this is essential.
What I’m trying to focus on in the next piece, though, is a slightly different layer. Not so much the approaches themselves (participation, storytelling, translation, etc.), but the systems and infrastructures that make them possible and managable..
I had a short stint in academia as an assistant. I ran away and never looked back.
It is its own world - not a place for everyone.
A difficult experience is still an experience :)
But what’s described here is more of a systemic perspective - not only on academia, but on any knowledge-driven industry and any form of institutionalized expertise.
Yes, just my own experience. It was quite similar. Guys were working on the same topics for the same stakeholders from before I was born.
It is very much its own game there.