Science as Culture: A View from the Petri Dish

Abstract

Recent work in sociological/cultural studies of science (SCS) is characterized by the virtually total absence of any participation by practising scientists. This interdisciplinary barrier appears to be largely a consequence of the relativist approach to the study of science. In addition to having philosophical objections, scientists may reasonably ask whether an approach that effectively renders their interests irrelevant is strategically sound. If there are significant areas of opportunity where the methods and concepts of SCS could have a positive impact on the practice of science, collaboration between scientist and SCSer might well be preferred to the treatment of scientists as non-participatory laboratory specimens.