We intend to problematize the agroecological “dialogue of knowledge” and survey the conditions of anthropology for such problems. The fundamental argument is that, despite the proposal of non-hierarchical construction of agroecological knowledge (between “scientific” and “non-scientific” knowledge), its epistemological basis does not comprises the complex interactions produced among the agents in question, ambivalently contributing to a hierarchical and asymmetric relationship of power. We suggest that: the idea that agroecology promotes harmonious relations between scientists and farmers simplifies interactions tensioned by the dynamic approximation/estrangement; the conception of culture and cultural diversity implicit in the dialogue of knowledge is based on the dissociation between “thought” and “action”; a “political dynamics of alterity” would better define the agroecological relational scheme; the anthropological conception of translation would contribute to the promotion of a “double extensionality,” not based on the capacity to teach, but rather on the capacity to learn.

Non-immersive VR environments are related to the least interactive application of VR techniques, such that interaction with the VR environment can occur commonly by 3D-TV without full immersion into the environment. This study presents how 3D-TV exposure combined with physiology recording can elicit fear of cockroaches among individuals with different levels of fear. Thirty-six participants, set apart into three fear groups (low vs. moderate vs. high), were exposed to VR environment with cockroaches for 4 minutes while recording and using cardiac activity as input to the VR environment. Results revealed significant effects on self-report measures and heart rate between different fear groups. Moreover, participants with higher levels of fear were more likely to trigger cockroaches into the scenario due to their cardiac acceleration. Overall results suggest that our physiology-driven VR environment is valid for fear elicitation while having potential use in therapeutic domain.

The urban becomes fundamental in the reconciliation of environmental issues given the current global urbanization. This study aims to pursue guidelines for developing a methodological approach that enlightens the relations between deforestation and urbanization in the Amazon. Considering the intense urban transition undergoing in the region, a systematic review was conducted to understand the state of knowledge and challenges of this scope. The analysis highlighted four investigative perspectives with relevant contributions, which could be better articulated with adjustments in the analysis system, an urban conceptual reformulation, and also with variables sensitive to socio-spatial dynamics. Approaches to social theory of mobility and risk have supported the design of an urban critical theory in line with the multidimensionality and transscalarity of the urban fabric socio-landscapes. By adding analytical perspectives from the spatial demography field, the study presents a theoretical-methodological framework to approach the contemporary interface between deforestation and urbanization.

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A agroecologia pode ser compreendida como uma ciência e movimento social que, buscando resgatar saberes e práticas ancestrais, propõe uma outra relação entre o ser humano e o meio ambiente, diferente dos modelos preconizados pela agricultura moderna e a Revolução Verde. Nesse sentido, o chamado diálogo de saberes surge como um paradigma epistêmico capaz de articular conhecimento científico e as diferentes culturas tradicionais. O objetivo deste artigo é investigar o diálogo de saberes agroecológico a partir da observação do Congresso Brasileiro de Agroecologia (CBA), tomando como cena principal a mística de abertura do evento. Prática comumente associada ao teatro, mas também aos ritos herdados de lideranças religiosas ligadas à Teologia da Libertação, a mística constitui um importante elemento de formação da identidade do grupo dos sem-terra. Assim, neste artigo são retratados, a partir de um relato etnográfico, alguns dos principais momentos e personagens envolvidos na performance de teatro invisível planejado e executado para dar início ao congresso. Conclui-se que a mística revela as disputas políticas presentes no diálogo de saberes agroecológico, atuando como importante elemento de resistência dos movimentos sociais rurais.