1. 'Science Studies' in Sweden.
- Author
-
Aant Elzinga, Paul D.
- Subjects
SOCIAL sciences ,LITERATURE ,PERIODICALS ,SCIENCE & society ,POLICY sciences - Abstract
This article presents information on the current status of social sciences in Sweden. In Sweden there has been no special journal, bulletin or newsletter for science studies. At present each of the affiliated groups produces its own series of in-house reports with limited distribution. There is no distinct inclination to cultivate contacts with any specific international journal. In his review of the state of the art in Scandinavia a few years ago, researcher A. Jamison remarked on the striking absence of what he called "American-style" sociology of science. There is also an absence of what may be called "British-style" social studies of science. The explanations offered by Jamison are still pertinent. Indeed various factors must be borne in mind when judging the work described in this report. First, there is the nature of the relevant research communities in Sweden. They are small, and lack the same degree of autonomy enjoyed by their counterparts in other, larger countries. Secondly, there is the political and organizational context in which social scientists in this country have to operate. Social science is concerned with keeping the machine running smoothly, and providing material of interest to policy-makers.
- Published
- 1980
- Full Text
- View/download PDF