The cookstove-rape prevention myth and the limits of techno-saviorism

Abstract

The field of humanitarian technology is rife with techno-saviorism-the promotion of technology as a panacea and not simply a technique of intervention. Humanitarian technology advocates, designers, and promoters uphold technological objects and interventions as having an incredible agency to solve complex social and environmental problems. A prevalent example is the promotion of improved cookstoves to address a number of complex global problems such as the negative health impacts of cooking, climate change, deforestation, and sexual violence in conflict zones. In this paper, I outline research that critiques the "stoves reduce rape" rhetoric, and discuss techno-saviorism in terms of improved cookstove myths, consequences, and gender inequalities. I conclude with reflections from discussions with scientists and humanitarian practitioners who design, test, market, deliver, and advocate for improved cookstoves.