The Mangle of Practice

The Mangle of Practice is a concept that describes how human actions, tools, and circumstances interact in complex ways when we pursue knowledge. It suggests that our practices are shaped by the limitations of available resources, cultural influences, and individual creativity. Instead of a straightforward process, knowledge creation is dynamic and sometimes chaotic; unexpected outcomes can emerge from this interplay. Essentially, it highlights that knowledge is not purely a product of thought but is deeply embedded in social and material contexts, influencing how we understand and engage with the world.