Scigen301 Flashcards
What is the new social contract for science?
Science that is: -
Reflecting the greater complexity of modern society- Producing knowledge that is socially robust- Where the notion of expertise is broadened
An unwritten tacit agreement about how to ensure the social value of publicly funding
science
What is Policy for Science?
What it’s for
Associated values
Organising and governing the
public production of knowledge
through universities, public
research organisations and
other public institutions
Prioritising, budget allocations,
creating opportunities for
innovation and collaboration
Government can step in to
support research that is in the
public interest (especially when
‘the market’ fails to deliver)
Example: research related to
societal transformations, climate
change and adaptation, public
health, etc.
Role of scientists- Produce reliable knowledge- Expert advice (peer review
what is Science for
Policy
What it’s for
Processes to inform public policy
planning and decision-making
with latest evidence:- Expert working groups- Select committee testimony- Science advisors- Regulatory science - Horizon scanning and
‘foresight’
Role of scientists- Honest brokers- Problem identification, structuring- Position-based distinctions- Academic- Public Research Organisation- Private sector / NGO
What is Governance of new tech?
Maximising opportunities
(economic, health,
environment, consumer…) - Yet protecting from
unintended harm
What is the Collingridge dilemma -
cant predict the effect of new tech until its in the public but then its hard to regulate
What are the 6 ways of classifying morals?
Moral values
*Loyalty, honesty, giving respect to each other
Social values
*Individuality, equality, patriotism, respect for human dignity.
Aesthetic values
*Referring to the value of an object/state/event to elicit
pleasure or displeasure (not only art and beauty!)
Personal: Internal reference for good/important
Cultural: Values shared by a group
Political - left v right wing
is science value-free?
increasing consensus that it is not value free
why is accepting that science is value laden good?
it allows for more open discussion of factors that enter scientific judgements and the experimental process
gives us a clearer vision of potential effects/consequences
enables a more open discussion with scientists and the public
where are value laden judgements promonient in science?
in fields where science has direct implications for social decision making - toxicology, environmental science etc
Why is the notion of a “priestly scientist” important?
Science as a vocation justifies:- “Monastic” lives with, with exclusive focus on science.- Low-paid “initiation periods”(apprenticeships).
Repercussions for equity:- Difficult entry for low socio-economic groups.- Difficult “survival” for scientists with caring
responsibilities.
why is it argued we should trust science?
Science takes a position of - Available evidence only
its robust and trustworthy
comes from rigorous testing and checks through the scientific method
Moving away from church and state towards intellectual pursuits is referred to as ?
enlightenment
what are values?
the describe the importance of a thing or action
based on values we determine our best choice of action of how we should live
gives us a moral compass
techniques on solving wicked problems
- engage community in research
- use local expertise
- be transparent and honest
- attend community meetings
- beware of power dynamics
- acknowledge and create relationships
- know your community and stakeholders
whats the difference between transdisciplinarity and participatory research
trans- both academics and non - acas
participatory - generally non academics
