SCC 2014 - How science policy really works

How science policy ‘really’ works

How science policy ‘really’ works

(1)what roles do/should learned societies and institutions take in raising the profile of certain issues, and when and where should they impact on science policy?

(2) to what extent and how public opinion can/should influence science policy.

What is science policy?

Policy for science

Science for policy

What roles do learned societies and institutions take in raising the profile of certain issues, and when and where should they impact on science policy?

What do policy makers need?

Access to the best evidence to make good policy

Solutions as well as problems

Clarity

What do learned societies and institutions have? Expertise

Independence

Convening power

Policy for science

Science for policy

Challenges

“Our biggest problems today, from climate change to economic development to disease control, cannot be addressed using reductionist and linear techniques. Delivering quality science to inform these policy challenges will require a concerted effort, bringing together evidence, networks and communications in timely, politically savvy ways.”

Ben Ramalingam, Research Fortnight, 26 March 2014.

Challenges

Being heard

It isn’t just about the science

Timeliness

Asking for the possible?

To what extent and how public opinion can/should influence science policy.

Policy for science

All trials campaign

Science is vital

Focus groups?

Science for policy

Sense about Science ask for evidence campaign

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority mitochondrial replacement consultation

Science as part of the public discourse

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