Sociology of Science
Contemporary Western societies are often seen as becoming "knowledge societies". In such societies "science" plays a distinctive role, namely as an important creator of knowledge.
In this course we will explore how knowledge is socially constructed in different scientific disciplines. Science can be conceptualised as an institution with specific cultures and practices. We will try to analyse how science actually works:
- How do research interests emerge?
- Which social processes lead to scientific progress?
- How do collaboration and competition work within a scientific discipline or a laboratory?
- Who gets credit for results?
- Which incentives exist within science?
- Which norms influence scientists?
- What structures the organisation of scientific activity?
- How does society effect science and vice versa?
Starting with classical conceptions (such as Merton and Kuhn) we will work our way through key outputs of Sociology of Science as well as Science and Technology Studies and hence look at "science" from various angles.
Please note this course will be taught in English. However, students with a fair knowledge of English who are prepared to read English texts are very welcome to join and openly discuss prominent contributions of an emerging interdisciplinary field.
Requirements: regular attendance, oral presentations and essays
Recommended reading:
Merton, Robert K. (1974). The Sociology of Science: Theoretical and Empirical Investigations. University of Chicago Press.
Knorr Cetina, Karin (1981). The Manufacture of Knowledge. An Essay on the Constructivist and Contextual Nature of Science. Oxford: Pergamon Press.
Biagioli, Mario (Ed.) (1999). The Science Studies Reader. New York: Routledge.
