The influence of "place": a case study of Antarctic scientists. Issue 1 (2nd January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frederick, Guy; Rock, Jenny
• Is Part Of: Polar journal. Volume 8:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 126
• Page End: 140
• Publication Date: 2018-01-02
• Subjects: Antarctica -- identity -- science -- place-based research -- workplace -- narrative inquiry; Polar regions -- Periodicals; Polar regions -- Research -- Periodicals; Antarctica -- Periodicals; Antarctica -- Research -- Periodicals; 998
• DOI: 10.1080/2154896X.2018.1468632
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2154-896X

Abstract

Abstract: The relationship between Antarctica and its researchers gives insight into the effect of place on scientists at work in the field. While research into place-based identity and attachment are commonly linked to the formative influence of childhood places, the effect of the places we interact with in our professional lives is less well understood. Our case study examines the influence of Antarctica on the identity of scientists working there, by quering the attributes of Antarctica that influence who these individuals are and how they work. Using narrative inquiry to assess letters written "to Antarctica" by the participants, and semi-structured interviews, a conceptual framework was constructed of key elements including its physical, human, scientific and identity-related impacts. Three overarching central themes were identified as connecting these elements: clarity, community and connectivity. Collectively, these themes encapsulate the critical attributes of Antarctica as an influential place. Whereas the objectivity of science has traditionally been aspired to through a distancing of methodology from the effects of people and place, this study supports overt recognition of the who and where of science, a critical focus for understanding our important relationships with place in an increasingly globalised and rapidly changing world.