Pragmatic constructions : simulation and the vulnerability of technological cultures

M.V. Kouw

Research output: ThesisDoctoral ThesisInternal

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Abstract

Water management and civil engineering in the Netherlands rely strongly on the use of simulations and models to deal with various risks, such as flooding and dike breaches. However, this reliance on simulations and models can also imply risks due to the assumptions, uncertainties, and blind spots that may accompany simulation practice.

Based on interviews and observations pertaining to the use of simulations and models in hydrology, hydrodynamics, geotechnical engineering, and ecology, this dissertation discusses how simulations and models make knowledge of risks more or less visible, and to what extent their use makes present-day societies susceptible to risks.
Original languageEnglish
QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution
  • Maastricht University
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Wyatt, Sally, Supervisor
  • Bijker, Wiebe E., Supervisor
Award date20 Dec 2012
Place of Publication's-Hertogenbosch
Publisher
Print ISBNs9789088915369
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2012

Keywords

  • water management
  • civil engineering
  • simulations
  • risks

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