Towards a Spatial Science Capable of Accelerating Ethics, Empathy, and Equity

Keywords: Tobler lecture
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Saturday
Session Start / End Time: 2/26/2022 05:20 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/26/2022 06:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 45

Abstract

Science has traditionally been driven by curiosity, and followed one goal - the pursuit of truth and advancement of knowledge. Recently, ethics, empathy, and equity, termed the 3Es, are emerging as drivers of research and disrupting established practices. In this talk I explore how trends in spatial science intersect with science motivated by the 3Es. First, many big spatial data sets used in spatial analysis, especially in analysis of people and communities, are generated for purposes other than science. Lack of systematic and statistically robust sampling is creating unrepresentative data that under sample perspectives of people experiencing inequities and harms. Second, spatial analytics are conducted across a broad range of fields using diverse methods, which creates opportunities for inferential error. Inferential error is a barrier to generating knowledge that is necessary for building understanding and empathy. Third, fundamentally, spatial interaction has changed due to growth in technologically based interactions. Tobler’s first law of geography, that all things are related and near things more than far, is still true. However, measures of near and far must adapt, as nearness and interaction can occur without physical proximity. Developing methods to account for digital proximity is required to generate equity supporting knowledge, as digital space is being highlighted as harmful for people already experiencing societal discrimination and underservice. I conclude with a call to action and invite spatial scientists to mobilize for change by engaging in humility, doubling down on efforts to create inclusive and accurate knowledge, and diversifying our teams and networks.