Cultures of Energy

Ep. #35 - Vanessa Agard-Jones

Sep 29, 2016
In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Agard-Jones, a Columbia University professor, delves into the concept of chemical kinship in Martinique, shedding light on the lasting effects of toxic pesticides like chlordecone. She addresses the racial and postcolonial dynamics of contamination and explores how these issues intertwine with ideas of political independence. Vanessa also introduces her theoretical framework, emphasizing 'chemical kin/esthesia' and molecular ethnography. Plus, she provocatively suggests that the chemical turn is, at its core, a queer turn that warrants deeper exploration.
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ANECDOTE

Crop Duster Pesticide Exposure

  • Dominic recounts biking near strawberry fields and getting sprayed by a crop duster pesticide.
  • This sudden exposure raised worries about toxic absorption and agricultural chemical use.
INSIGHT

Chlordeccone's Lingering Toxicity

  • The pesticide chlordeccone historically polluted Martinique due to over a decade of use on banana plantations.
  • Its toxicity continues to impact the island decades after the chemical was banned globally.
INSIGHT

Regulatory Exceptions for Martinique

  • Chlordeccone was initially banned in the U.S. and Europe after a toxic spill in Virginia.
  • Despite this, it was reintroduced in Martinique with approval from French authorities due to local banana industry lobbying.
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