Practices of Responsible Research and Innovation: A Review

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Science and Technology Studies

Background:

• Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) is a key concept in contemporary science policy.
• Understanding the practical implementation of RRI is crucial for its theoretical and practical advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing RRI practices.
• To identify common approaches, values, dimensions, and characteristics of RRI.
• To provide insights for improving RRI theory and practice.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of 52 articles on RRI practices.
• Analysis of RRI practices to map approaches and pursued values.
• Identification of gaps in methodological information and theoretical reflection.

Main Results:

• Existing RRI practices largely reflect the diverse values and characteristics outlined in RRI definitions.
• Not all defined values, dimensions, or characteristics of RRI are consistently addressed in current practices.
• A need for enhanced methodological information and theoretical reflection within RRI practice literature was identified.

Conclusions:

• RRI practices offer a rich basis for conceptual discussions and academic debate.
• Incorporating more methodological detail and reflective elements can improve the uptake and impact of RRI.
• Anticipating impacts within RRI practices can foster greater responsiveness between theory and practice.