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A general framework for analysing diversity in science, technology and society
1SPRU-Science and Technology Policy Research, Freeman Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 9QE, UK. a.c.stirling@sussex.ac.uk
Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
|March 1, 2007
Summary
This study introduces a new framework and quantitative heuristic for analyzing diversity in science, technology, and society. It enables systematic exploration of diversity properties and trade-offs for better decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary studies
- Science and technology policy
- Societal impact of innovation
Background:
- Current analyses of diversity in science and technology often lack integration.
- Existing frameworks may not fully capture the multifaceted nature of diversity.
- Need for systematic and transparent methods to assess diversity across various domains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a general framework for integrated analysis of diversity in science, technology, and society.
- To develop a quantitative, non-parametric diversity heuristic.
- To enable systematic exploration of diversity under different perspectives and weightings.
Main Methods:
- Development of a framework with three necessary diversity properties.
- Application of 10 quality criteria for heuristic development.
- A quantitative, non-parametric diversity heuristic for systematic analysis.
Main Results:
- The proposed heuristic allows for systematic exploration of diversity.
- It facilitates analysis under divergent conceptions of attributes and contrasting weightings.
- Demonstrates how to explore trade-offs between diversity and other factors, including portfolio interactions.
Conclusions:
- The developed approach enhances systematic and transparent treatment of scientific and technological diversity.
- Applicable to diverse fields such as conservation, research governance, energy policy, and sustainable innovation.
- Offers a robust method for understanding and managing complex diversity aspects.
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