Science diplomacy and politics: building the Global Atmospheric Research Program

  • 0Centre for Science Studies, Aarhus University, Denmark.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

The Global Atmospheric Research Program (GARP) was established through international scientific and political collaboration. Key figures like Charney, Malone, and Bolin navigated science and politics to advance weather forecasting and climate research.

Area Of Science

  • Meteorology
  • Climate Science
  • International Scientific Cooperation

Background

  • The Global Atmospheric Research Program (GARP) was a joint initiative by the World Meteorological Organisation and the International Council of Scientific Unions, running from 1967 to 1982.
  • GARP aimed to foster international collaboration in global atmospheric observation for enhanced weather forecasting and climate change studies.

Purpose Of The Study

  • This article investigates the crucial development phase of GARP, spanning from 1961 to 1967.
  • It highlights the pivotal roles of US meteorologists Jule Charney and Thomas Malone, alongside Swedish meteorologist Bert Bolin, in the program's foundational organization.

Main Methods

  • The study examines the interplay between scientific objectives and political dynamics during GARP's inception.
  • It analyzes President John F. Kennedy's initiative for scientific cooperation to alleviate international tensions.
  • It details the concerted efforts by key scientists to garner political backing and the subsequent negotiations within the International Council of Scientific Unions.

Main Results

  • The development of GARP was significantly influenced by political considerations, starting with a US presidential call for scientific diplomacy.
  • Scientists actively engaged in securing political support, demonstrating the link between scientific advancement and governmental backing.
  • Complex negotiations within the International Council of Scientific Unions were essential for structuring and launching GARP.

Conclusions

  • The formation of GARP exemplifies the intricate relationship between scientific aspirations and political realities.
  • Successful international scientific programs require strategic navigation of both scientific challenges and political landscapes.
  • The foundational period of GARP underscores the importance of leadership and negotiation in achieving large-scale collaborative research goals.

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