Public perception of science and associated general issues for the scientist

• Published in: Phytochemistry (Oxford) Vol. 50; no. 1; pp. 1 - 7
• Main Author: Boulter, D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier Ltd 01.01.1999; Elsevier
• Subjects: Biotechnology; Changed science culture; Environment; ethics; General points; history; History of science and technology; History of science in relation to other disciplinary fields; literature reviews; public opinion; Public perception; Religion; Religious belief; Science defined; scientists; Biotechnology; Science defined; Environment; Changed science culture; Public perception; Religious belief; Belief; Technology; Theory; Experiment; Religion; Perception; Philosophy of science; Culture
• ISSN: 0031-9422; 1873-3700
• DOI: 10.1016/S0031-9422(98)00455-5

This paper discusses how the public's criticisms that science is elitist, obscure, lacks control, tampers with the environment and is unethical arise in part from the nature of science itself or due to misunderstandings of what is science. An historical examination of scientific activity leads to the conclusion that whilst a strict definition of science is not possible, it can best be described as a powerful problem solving, self correcting activity with a specific critical attitude, criteria and coherent subject matter, differing only in scope and approach (pattern of cognitive fluidity, [Mithin, S., The Prehistory of the Mind. Thames and Hudson, London, 1996.]) to many other human activities. It is complementary rather than antagonistic to religious belief. Applications of science can change the environment for better or for worse and at this stage in man's evolution the environment merits special scientific attention. As biotechnology grows in importance, the nature of science itself and the means for its practical application will be called into question; `pure' scientific culture may be about to be dramatically modified. Scientists will face the challenge of re-introducing science into mainstream culture by integrating wider cultural values into their scientific activities.