The emergence of a new kind of relativism in environmental modelling: a commentary

In recent years, relativism has been the object of yet another campaign of criticism, this time from scientists who consider it antithetical to the practice of science. In this context, the 2002 publication by Beven of an article in which (between the lines) he advocates a kind of relativism associated with environmental modelling is particularly noteworthy. In the present commentary, it is argued that cognitive relativism is unavoidable in environmental sciences and that it has been recognized as such for over two decades by a number of researchers in the field. It is also pointed out, however, that the kind of relativism alluded to by Beven expands the scope of the debate significantly, and has serious implications for the practice of environmental policy making.