I am writing to apply for funding to support a research project that aims to explore the practices and processes necessary for transforming a town into a regenerative community, utilising a posthumanism methodology. Our research seeks to prioritize the agency and value of non-human entities and ecosystems, thereby transcending the traditional human-centred approach to development.
The key objectives of this research, guided by post-humanist principles, include:
a) Identifying the key principles and concepts of regenerative development from a post-humanist standpoint, emphasising the interconnectedness and co-agency of humans, non-human beings, and ecological systems.
b) Understanding the existing practices and processes, acknowledging both human and non-human actors, that facilitate the transformation of towns towards regenerative development.
c) Critically assessing the challenges and barriers faced during the implementation of regenerative practices, considering the multiple and diverse perspectives and needs of human and non-human entities within the town. The research will explore potential solutions that promote inclusivity and equity.
d) Analysing and documenting successful case studies of regenerative transformations in towns from a post-humanist perspective, focusing on the relationships, interdependencies, and co-constitutive nature of human and non-human actors.
e) Providing recommendations and guidelines, rooted in post-humanist ethics, for towns interested in embarking on a regenerative development journey that promotes the well-being and flourishing of all constituents, human and non-human alike.
To achieve these objectives, our research will leverage the following post-humanist methodologies and approaches:
a) Post-humanist Review: A comprehensive review of current knowledge and practice to understand the principles, concepts, and practices of regenerative development from a post-humanist perspective.
b) Multi-species Engagements: Engagements and non-hierarchical interactions with human and non-human entities involved in regenerative development, generating insights into their experiences, challenges, and successes.
c) Case Studies: Conducting multiple case studies of towns that have successfully initiated and implemented regenerative development initiatives through inclusive, multi-species collaborations to explore the practices, processes, and outcomes that prioritise the agency and well-being of all participants.
d) Post-humanist synthesis: Analysing collected data using post-humanist analytical frameworks to uncover new perspectives and insights by considering the entanglements, entwinements, and relationality of human and non-human actors.
The significance of this post-humanist research lies in its potential to:
a) Reconceptualize Development: Redefine regenerative development within a post-humanist framework, challenging anthropocentric notions of progress and considering the diverse needs and interests of all participants.
b) Promote Pluralistic Sustainability: Provide practical guidance on creating sustainable and resilient communities while fostering equitable relationships between humans and non-humans.
c) Expand Knowledge Boundaries: Bridge the gap in the current understanding of regenerative development processes, contributing to interdisciplinary research that involves human and non-human interactions in town transformations.
We are committed to upholding ethical considerations aligned with post-humanist principles throughout the research process. This includes recognizing and respecting the agency and autonomy of all participants, obtaining informed consent, and ensuring the ethical treatment of humans and non-human beings involved in the research. Transparency, reflexivity, and reciprocity will guide our research process.
The proposed timescale for this project spans over five years, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of regenerative development and the implementation of findings. In addition, this project will serve as the basis for a combined PhD program, integrating lived experiences and practical implementation.
The estimated budget for this post-humanist research is £150,000 per year. The budget will cover expenses related to data collection, analysis, and dissemination, including engaging with diverse stakeholders, travel costs (if necessary), analytical tools, and publication fees. The project will create 5 full-time equivalent positions from the first year and develop into sustainable operations by the fifth year.
In conclusion, this research proposal, grounded in a post-humanist methodology, aims to investigate the practices and processes necessary for transforming towns towards regenerative development. By embracing pluralism, considering the co-agency of human and non-human actors, and recognizing diverse perspectives and ethics, this research seeks to guide towns in creating sustainable, inclusive, and thriving communities.
We appreciate your consideration of our funding application and look forward to discussing this research proposal further.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Want to print your doc? This is not the way.
Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (
