Cartografia cognitiva das secas nos sertões semiáridos sob a óptica da complexidade

Abstract

The drought problem in the northeastern region of Brazil has consistently been reported and portrayed as a serious social problem, and yet, the problem continues even today, without any sign of a realistic solution. From the first report of droughts in Brazil, over 400 years have passed, during which investments and actions were made in an attempt at a solution. The problem has passed through various paradigms, such as conservation attempts as well as general acceptance, but without any effective solution. The Northeast has recently experienced (2012-2015) yet another drought, similar to the problem reported in the southeastern region with the drought in São Paulo, proving that everything that is known –or thought to be known – about the topic has contributed only in part to give way to the necessary living conditions in certain areas of semiarid terrain. Based on this context, stemming from the hypothesis that it is necessary to use a new form of analysis based on what it already known about the drought issue, where it is possible to detect and recognize the existing complexities on the topic, this study seeks to analyze the problem in light of the Theory of Complexity by Edgar Morin. This study establishes, therefore, the objective to identify and evidence the complexity contained –and still little known – demonstrating the necessity of restructuring thought for the constitution of a new path to overcome of the social problem in question. The methodology established in this study uses, as a basis, the Cognitive Cartography and Social Analysis of Discourse, with a field study of the municipal of Quixadá, Ceará. The results obtained propose a new point of observation in relation to the permanence of determined patterns of cognition and action about the drought issue, therefore allowing the study to be perceived as a proposition of revision to the hegemonic conceptions, which have not contributed to change the reality in the semiarid backlands.