The discursive construction of pesticides: between poisons and medicines

 

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書誌詳細
著者: García-González, Jaime E.
フォーマット: artículo original
状態:Versión publicada
出版日付:2026
その他の書誌記述:This article critically examines the discursive construction of pesticides, particularly the metaphor that frames them as “medicines for plants.” It argues that this linguistic device is not neutral but contributes to downplaying their biocidal nature and reducing public risk perception. Drawing on toxicology, critical epidemiology, and risk communication, the paper shows that pesticides are inherently toxic substances with potential impacts on human health and ecosystems. The study further explores how language shapes the legitimacy of chemically dependent agricultural models by presenting pesticides as therapeutic solutions. It also addresses issues such as biological resistance and technological dependency, which challenge the notion of pesticides as effective and sustainable treatments. From an ethical perspective, the article analyzes the responsibilities of public authorities, professionals, and commercial actors in risk communication, emphasizing the need for conceptual accuracy, transparency, and the precautionary principle. It concludes that accurately naming these substances is essential for informed decision-making in public health, sustainability, and agricultural policy.
国:Portal de Revistas UNA
機関:Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica
Repositorio:Portal de Revistas UNA
言語:Español
Inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:www.revistas.una.ac.cr:article/22689
オンライン・アクセス:https://www.revistas.una.ac.cr/index.php/ambientales/article/view/22689
キーワード:pesticides
toxicity
risk communication
metaphors
agrochemicals
public health
ethics
agroecology
plaguicidas
toxicidad
comunicación del riesgo
metáforas
agroquímicos
salud pública
ética
agroecología
pesticidas
toxicidade
comunicação de risco
saúde pública
agroecologia