FergusonMemo3Biographical+Sketch2020

Biosketch for Sean Ferguson, 2020 (PhD Science and Technology Studies, RPI, 2010)

Sean Ferguson holds the Ford Chair in the Department of Science and Technology Studies (STS) at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. He specializes in the introduction and evolution of new technologies and industries that are focused on sustainable development. His work has ranged from the early development of the bioplastic industry (Sustainability or Perpetuation of Consumption: Developing Bioplastic Markets in Europe and the United States, MIT Press, 2013) to worker cooperatives and democratic theory (manuscript in progress). In his work he uses the theories developed in STS to analyze the social and cultural dynamics of technological development and emerging markets. He has been retained as a consultant in industry and New York and Michigan government. In these positions he has worked with various stakeholders to develop the discourse necessary to outline possible pathways and pitfalls in developing new technologies and policies.

Keyword Biosketch for Sean Ferguson: Sean Ferguson, Professor of Science and Technology Studies, Ford Chair: Social and Cultural Studies of Technology and Industry, Democratic Theory, Democracy in markets and workplaces, consumption and consumers, sustainable development, Agriculture policy.