Is Open Science Neoliberal?

Area of Science:

• Science and Technology Studies
• Philosophy of Science
• Sociology of Science

Background:

• The open science movement aims to reshape scientific practices.
• Existing literature frequently characterizes open science as neoliberal.
• This characterization is debated due to oversimplification and flawed arguments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the attribution of neoliberalism to the open science movement.
• To address the need for more nuanced analyses of scientific reform's sociopolitical dimensions.
• To propose a new analytical model for understanding reform proposals.

Main Methods:

• Critical analysis of existing literature on open science and neoliberalism.
• Deconstruction of arguments linking open science to neoliberalism based on methodology, philosophy of science, and policy.
• Development of a conceptual model for analyzing reform proposals.

Main Results:

• The critique of open science as monolithic and inherently neoliberal is found to be unsubstantiated.
• Arguments linking open science to neoliberalism based on specific features (methodology, philosophy, policy) lack rigorous support.
• A proposed model highlights the interconnected yet distinct domains of methodology, axiology, science policy, and ideology in reform.

Conclusions:

• The widespread attribution of neoliberalism to open science is an oversimplification.
• A more sophisticated approach is required to understand the complex sociopolitical landscape of scientific reform.
• The proposed analytical model offers a framework for recognizing diverse tendencies and unique aspects within the open science movement.