Science, politics and water management for sustainability: economics as example

Abstract

What is the role of science in water management? It is argued that science cannot claim value neutrality when dealing with policy or political issues. The scholar is better understood as a political person and actor in a democratic society. Technocracy has a role but should be subordinated to normal ideas of democracy. Experiences from humanities and social sciences are relevant for water policy and management.

These issues are discussed in relation to the discipline of economics. The monopoly position of neoclassical economics at university departments of economics is challenged and regarded as part of the problems faced. This monopoly position has strongly influenced the thinking and mental maps of more or less influential actors in our societies. The fact that a specific theoretical perspective in economics is not only science but at the same time ideology suggests that only pluralism in economics research and education is compatible with a democratic society.

Keywords:

• neoclassical economics
• pluralism
• sustainable development
• ideological orientation
• political economic person
• political economic organization
• efficiency; democracy