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Seeking exposure: conversions of scientific knowledge in an African city
Gemma Aellah1, P Wenzel Geissler2
1London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , Keppel Street , London WC1E 7HT , United Kingdom and The Royal Anthropological Institute , 50 Fitzroy Street , London W1T 5BT , United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Transnational medical research has become a common feature in many parts of Africa. This paper explores the contribution such activity makes to the social and economic lives of those involved, including both trial subjects and local staff. By considering the value of the 'exposure' that involvement brings to staff and research participants, we reflect on the conversion of scientific knowledge into practical knowledge and its value to sustaining precarious livelihoods in an economically fragile city. We consider the interplay between science and sociality and argue for a need to take seriously the circulation of scientific knowledge beyond the confines of expert spaces.
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