Adriana Petryna Bücher

"This book argues that a world characterized by runaway climate change needs radically new models of scientific and practical expertise to effectively address the emergency"--

On April 26, 1986, Unit Four of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor exploded in the Soviet Ukraine. More than 3.5 million people in Ukraine alone, not to mention many citizens of surrounding countries, are suffering the effects. This title examines the vexed political, scientific, and social circumstances that followed the disaster.

Focusing on the intersection of clinical research, medicine, and capitalism, this book presents a nuanced examination of the global landscape of medical research, highlighting ethical ambiguities and the lack of regulatory frameworks. Through comprehensive anthropological research, it sheds light on the complexities of this gray zone, illustrating how contemporary anthropology can enhance our understanding of these critical issues and benefit society at large.

The book presents a fresh perspective on the climate crisis, framing it as an exploration of defining the boundaries of knowable and livable environments. It challenges traditional views by encouraging readers to rethink their understanding of climate issues, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and adapting to the limits of our changing world. Through this lens, it aims to inspire innovative approaches to sustainability and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.