How Do Social Values Contribute to or Undermine the Objectivity of Science?
- Social values can both enhance and compromise the objectivity of science.
- They influence:
- Research priorities
- Methodologies
- Interpretation of data
Understanding this relationship is crucial for evaluating the integrity and reliability of scientific knowledge.
Constitutive Values vs. Contextual Values
Definition
Constitutive values
Values intrinsic to the practice of science, such as accuracy, consistency, and empirical adequacy.
Their role is to guide the methodological and epistemic standards of scientific inquiry.
Definition
Contextual values
Values external to science, including social, cultural, ethical, and political considerations.
Their role is to influence the choice of research topics, funding decisions, and the application of scientific findings.Note
Helen Longino, a prominent philosopher of science, argues that contextual values are inevitable in science but can be managed through critical discourse and diverse perspectives.
Funding for Scientific Research
- Public Funding
- Often directed towards areas of societal importance, such as public health or environmental sustainability.
- Example: Government grants for renewable energy research reflect societal concerns about climate change.
- Private Funding
- Can introduce biases if driven by corporate interests or profit motives.
- Example: Pharmaceutical companies may prioritize research on profitable drugs over neglected diseases.
When analyzing the impact of funding on science, consider how financial interests might shape research agendas and influence the interpretation of results.
Military Research
- Dual-Use Dilemma
- Scientific advancements can have both civilian and military applications.
- Example: Nuclear physics led to both nuclear energy and nuclear weapons.
