Science at the Secretariat of the International Seabed Authority: post-normal science for recalibration of policy instruments.

Abstract

Post-normal conditions require post-normal resolutions. When stakes are high and values are disputed, policy discussions and decisions cannot rely on science alone. Such discussions require post-normal science, which centralizes the qualitative value of diverse knowledge groups. In this essay we discuss the usefulness of post-normal science in the context of the Secretariat's work at the International Seabed Authority. In particular, we explore the need to expand the understanding of science and knowledge - key components informing deep-seabed policies. Marine science encompasses a broad range of research topics and interests - from blue humanities with analyses of human-Ocean relations, to physics of particulate matter, to marine policy research. The growing number of disciplines applied to marine science demonstrates our increasing collective knowledge of the Ocean and, in turn, our appreciation of knowledge limitations. Such knowledge challenges are discussed among natural and social scientists. The Secretariat depends on broad expertise, from natural sciences, social sciences, civil society and beyond. In sum, our thesis is the following: we argue that post-normal science can help metaphorically recalibrate policy-shaping instruments (the practice) so that decision-making processes and policy agendas are implemented for transformative actions.