Paper short abstract:

This study explores the social construction of the sea and making a living from the sea in the Azores. It looks at how some social and cultural aspects of fisheries are privileged and some invisible. We also discuss how we may learn about broader perspectives for sustaining marine environments.

Paper long abstract:

Who decides what is worthy of being sustained in coastal communities? This study explores how different social groups understand the sea and making a living from the sea. Narratives were gathered primarily on the Azores islands, Portugal from people associated with fishing and past whaling: seniors from fishing villages, former whalers, former and current fishers; whale watchers in the Azores; and whale watching tour operators and guides, biologists, sailors, spear-fishers and kayakers. A comparison is made with Newfoundland communities active in "traditional" fishing.

Research participants offered thick descriptions of complex interactions with the sea, describing fear, danger, hunger, ambiguity but also joy, connection, and deep spiritual beliefs. Analysis of these narratives uncovers the social construction of knowledge as well as ways in which certain perspectives are excluded from these norms. Focus groups and photo elicitation allowed for an exploration of how "the ocean" is constructed in multiple ways and how differing groups respect the sea. Respect was often discussed: respect for the ocean; respect for whales; respect for fishers; respect for whalers. But these "respects" are not always inclusive. How does tourism focused on the "wilderness" of the ocean devoid of people influence respect for fishers or the former whalers? Where might the differing understandings of respect for the sea overlap to provide more respectful tourism and educational opportunities?

This presentation will discuss research methods as well as public education for bringing a broader scope of perspectives to the forum of sustainable marine fisheries management in the Azores and Newfoundland.