TOPIC: WHAT IS SCIENCE POLICY?

Scientists and policy makers toss around the term “science policy,” but what does it actually mean and why is it important? Is that different from science for policy and policy for science?

Questions to consider 

• What is science policy and why is it important?
• How is science policy different from science politics?
• Who is best to conduct science policy?

Group task

• Discuss examples of “science for policy” & “policy for science”

Resources

• Neal, H.A., T. Smith, J. McCormick, 2008: Beyond Sputnik: U.S. Science Policy in the Twenty-First Century, University of Michigan Press. (Chapter 1)
• Science and technology policymaking: a primer, CRS Report for Congress, April 2008
• “Will the real science policy please stand up? Forays into the history and realm of science decision making,” Constant Comments
• Pielke Jr., R.A., 2007: The Honest Broker: Making Sense of Science in Policy and Politics, Cambridge University Press

NOTE: While we are developing a more comprehensive curriculum, we welcome any comments or suggestions you may have, including references and topics.

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