Faces of Oppression: Future directions for Ergonomics and Human Factors.

ABSTRACT

The growing interest in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) centred work in the field of Ergonomics and Human Factors (EHF) can greatly benefit from Iris Young's Five Faces of Oppression theory, which details how well-intentioned systems can perpetuate harm in a number of ways. We call for a greater focus on systems of oppression in EHF research and practice along with increased collaboration with social sciences to tackle important societal issues. This article reviews the current state of research in the child welfare domain and provides examples for how cognitive engineering approaches can take inspiration from the social sciences to help create a more equitable future. These examples outline the potential mutualism between social sciences and EHF and the way this collaboration might dismantle various oppressive systems.

EHF work is often situated within sociotechnical systems that can generate oppression, or injustices imposed on social groups by societal structures. This publication shows the value that social science frameworks and literature can bring to EHF practice by supporting a more nuanced understanding of these systems of oppression.