Not a Small Matter: STS, Postcolonial Theory and Insect Extinction

• In Event: Elements: Thinking Our Present Elementally - II

Abstract

Policies and practices of species conservation typically invoke images of vertebrates. The Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966 listed only vertebrates; it was not until ten years later that a small amount of clam and butterfly species were added to the list. With the exception of marine sanctuaries and butterfly houses, most animal sanctuaries do not include invertebrates, especially not insects. This omission of invertebrates in conservation and rescue programs reflects deeper social views of animals. Insects in particular have a history of depiction as invasive species, agricultural pests, and disease vectors, with much effort spent on attempting to restrict and eliminate insects, not rescue them from extinction. However, conservation of insects is a growing need, overlooked due to sheer volume of the insect population and seemingly unlimited quantity of insect species, some still undiscovered. This accepted knowledge persists despite increasing reports of worldwide insect decline. The widespread disregard and misunderstanding of the ecological crisis of insect extinction is tied to long held human views of nature and animals. Utilizing postcolonial STS theoretical perspective and discourse analysis, I critique Western narratives depicting belief in unlimited natural resources, human entitlement to colonize these resources, and lack of ecological perspective. STS can serve to interrupt the underlying theoretical paradigms that marginalize the dangers of insect extinction.

Author

• Diane M. Rodgers, Northern Illinois University