Maria Paulsson

About Maria Paulsson

My PhD research lies at the intersection of theory of science, Science and Technology Studies (STS), philosophy of science, and environmental ethics. I critically examine how knowledge is produced, validated, and mobilized where science, policy, and society meet, particularly in the context of environmental governance.

Focusing on Swedish marine management, my thesis explores how the Ecosystem Approach is implemented as a governance framework to support more sustainable and balanced human–nature relations. I investigate how knowledge is shaped and how different actors are organized in efforts to foster more holistic, less exploitative interactions with marine ecosystems.

By tracing knowledge production across governance levels and among scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders, my research contributes to wider debates on valuation, co-management, and the role of science in shaping sustainability policies in and beyond the Anthropocene. It also reflects on the epistemic and ethical challenges of producing knowledge that both serves governance needs and remains responsive to ecological uncertainties and socio-political complexities.