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The phenomenon of Soviet science
1Department of History, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. anikov@interchange.ubc.ca
Osiris
|October 4, 2008
Summary
The Soviet experiment reshaped science as a profession and institution, influencing global scientific practices. It examined socialist science comparatively, highlighting its philosophical, institutional, and demographic impacts.
Area of Science:
- History of Science
- Sociology of Science
Background:
- The Soviet experiment aimed to accelerate historical development using presumed knowledge of history's laws.
- This paper focuses on the Soviet experiment's impact on scientific research and the global functioning of science as a profession and institution.
Observation:
- Analyzes Soviet science from a comparative international perspective, focusing on reciprocal influences rather than Cold War dichotomies.
- Examines Soviet science at philosophical, institutional, demographic, and political levels.
Findings:
- Soviet science influenced the relationship between science and society and the social construction of knowledge.
- Led to state recognition of research as a profession, the rise of big science, and scientific research institutes.
- Science became a mass profession with increased ethnic and gender diversity.
- Soviet-inspired influences impacted science in Europe and the US via the social relations of science movement and the Sputnik shock.
Implications:
- Provides a nuanced understanding of Soviet science's global impact on scientific practice and organization.
- Challenges traditional Cold War historiography by emphasizing international scientific exchange and influence.
- Highlights the long-term effects of state-driven scientific development on global scientific institutions and demographics.
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