Performing maps and masculinity in irrigation planning in Nepal: Why modernization myths live on in spite of professional reflexivity

Abstract

This article explores why modernization myths live on in spite of professional reflexivity in planned development. The focus is on irrigation planning in Chitwan District, Nepal, from the 1950s onwards. In analyzing modernist convictions and professional reflexivity in planned development, the analysis takes into account the use of expert knowledge artefacts, such as maps, and a professional culture of ‘masculinity’ in irrigation. The analysis suggests that uses of maps in irrigation planning are meaningful for professionals, because they help normalize an association in water knowledge between (male) engineers, ideas of supremacy, and claims of technology and scientific authority. In this capacity, maps can be considered to ‘perform’, subconsciously, channelling professional reflexivity and normalizing associations between modernist convictions, (male) experts and ‘masculinity’ in irrigation.