Science philosopher David Ludwig has been awarded a prestigious NWO Vici grant for his project Doing Science Differently? A Philosophy of Transgressive Science.
The Vici grant enables Ludwig to investigate how researchers can develop viable alternatives to 'business as usual' when addressing socioecological crises such as biodiversity loss, food insecurity and pollution?
Science in times of crisis
Climate change, accelerating biodiversity loss and mounting pollution place enormous demands on science. At the same time, science is not only an observer of crisis but also part of the systems that produce it. Agricultural science has enabled dramatic increases in crop yields through plant breeding, fertilisers and mechanisation, yet these advances have also contributed to soil degradation, biodiversity loss and global inequalities in food systems. Conservation science has shaped protected areas and restoration strategies, but sometimes in ways that marginalise local and Indigenous communities.
This dual role, as both problem solver and potential contributor to harm, lies at the heart of Ludwig's project.
What is transgressive science?
Ludwig calls these new approaches "transgressive science". He uses the term for research movements that want to break with business as usual, without abandoning scientific standards. They push against the dominant rules of their field, yet still aim to produce reliable and carefully tested knowledge.
Instead of experts deciding everything from the top down, these initiatives often work together with local communities. Farmers, residents or Indigenous groups are not just study objects, but partners in research. Transgressive scientists also question the idea that nature is simply a resource to be exploited. They explore different ways of understanding how humans, animals and ecosystems are connected. And they ask uncomfortable but necessary questions about justice: who benefits from scientific progress, and who pays the price?
This is a delicate balancing act. Step too far away from mainstream science and the work risks being labelled activism or fringe thinking. Ludwig's project investigates how researchers can innovate boldly while remaining scientifically rigorous and credible.
Completing the Veni Vidi Vici
With this award, Ludwig completes the full NWO Veni Vidi Vici trajectory, a rare achievement that recognises a researcher's development from promising talent to internationally leading scholar.
Economic and Environmental History
Economic and Environmental History, led by Ewout Frankema, aims to offer temporal depth to societal debates and social theories on sustainable and equitable welfare development.
