Reforming the Governance of Science

This volume presents a systematic exploration of science governance from a normative political theory perspective. It introduces a ‘republican’ governance model for science research and education, centered on universities, aligning with Karl Popper's concept of the ‘open society’ despite the elite nature of scientific expertise. This extensively revised 25th anniversary edition addresses the intensified tension noted in the original. As science's need to assert authority has grown with its deeper involvement in political, economic, and cultural spheres, a more educated public, often influenced by maverick scientists via social media, has increasingly challenged this authority. The Governance of Science anticipated several aspects of this issue, which are revisited here, considering the future of ‘science republicanism’ today. While specific arguments have evolved, the book's initial call for the ‘secularization’ of science remains pertinent.