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A mirror for science.
1Harvard University, USA.
Public Understanding of Science (Bristol, England)
|January 18, 2014
Summary
Rethinking public understanding of science is crucial. We need to study real public engagement with science, its media portrayal, and societal interactions, not outdated assumptions.
Area of Science:
- Science communication
- Sociology of science
- Public engagement with science
Background:
- Traditional views of public understanding of science (PUS) were narrowly framed.
- Assumptions of public ignorance and indifference created misunderstandings and flawed policies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically re-evaluate the concept of "public understanding of science."
- To encourage research that moves beyond outdated assumptions.
Main Methods:
- Analyzing historical conceptions of PUS.
- Proposing new research directions for PUS studies.
Main Results:
- Early PUS frameworks were based on inaccurate assumptions about the public.
- A narrow framing of science and its publics led to policy errors.
Conclusions:
- It is time to redefine and research "public understanding of science" based on actual public responses.
- Future research should focus on public engagement, science representation, and science-technology-society interactions.
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