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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