Science and the Public

This Element draws on resources from philosophy to theorize how science relates to the public, a current crucial topic.

Angela Potochnik (Author)

9781009475822, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 25 April 2024

84 pages
23.6 x 15.9 x 1.1 cm, 0.27 kg

'I would highly recommend this book to philosophers of science, natural scientists, and science communicators interested in issues of values in science and the science-society interface. It discusses contemporary values in science, such as dissent and diversity, from an innovative and enriching perspective, and it articulates a clear mandate for philosophers of science, scientists and related fields.' Ann-Christin Fischer, Journal for General Philosophy of Science

Science is a product of society: in its funding, its participation, and its application. This Element explores the relationship between science and the public with resources from philosophy of science. Chapter 1 defines the questions about science's relationship to the public and outlines science's obligation to the public. Chapter 2 considers the Vienna Circle as a case study in how science, philosophy, and the public can relate very differently than they do at present. Chapter 3 examines how public understanding of science can have a variety of different goals and introduces philosophical discussions of scientific understanding as a resource. Chapter 4 addresses public trust in science, including responding to science denial. Chapter 5 considers how expanded participation in science can contribute to public trust of science. Finally, Chapter 6 casts light on how science might discharge its obligations to the public.

1. Introduction
2. The Vienna circle: A different model of philosophy, science, and the public
3. Public understanding of science
4. Public trust in science
5. Participation in science
6. Science in service to the public
References.

Subject Areas: Philosophy [HP]