7.2: Science and Society
Improve mutual understanding between science and other sectors of society, with a particular focus on ICSU’s scientific priorities. Other Information:
Both the practice of science and the interaction of science with society have changed very significantly in recent decades
(ICSU, 2005a). Scientific evidence has become essential to policy making in many areas, from agricultural practices to carbon
emissions. There is also a greater emphasis on economic growth through innovation and commercialization, which is directly
affecting many public research institutions. Accelerated innovation and technology development has been accompanied by increased
public awareness of technological risk and scientific uncertainty. These changes have raised the importance of, and also produced
new opportunities to, increase public engagement with science. The globalization of both science and society reinforces the
needs for greater cross-cultural understanding and tolerance. Because of its international and interdisciplinary membership,
ICSU is uniquely positioned to promote the dialogue that is necessary within the scientific community and by working with
partners in the public and private sector it can extend this dialogue into society at large.
Objective(s):
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