7.2 What is science policy, anyway?

Scientists don't work in a vacuum or in a laboratory divorced from the real world-although some might wish they did. The grand pursuit and accrual of knowledge that we call science is inextricably linked to society.

For starters, scientists have to get their research money from somewhere. Taxpayers pay a large share of the research in most countries. And while curiosity might be the inspiration for many projects, the resulting findings often have consequences for society. Science shapes our world, and it shapes the (sometimes seemingly irrational) decisions of politicians. And politicians (sometimes seemingly irrationally) have a big say in what kinds of research are permitted and receive funding.

The importance of science policy, and the depths to which you will need to plumb it, depends upon who your readers are. If your readers are scientists, you must probe the societal forces that influence their ability to conduct research. If your readers are lay people, you must probe the motivations behind political decisions that affect science and how research findings, in turn, affect your readers.

Simply put, science policy is the nexus of science and society. It encompasses decisions, big and small, about research, and any plan of action - however wise or misguided.

As a science journalist, if you only focus on the findings, you are often missing the bigger picture.

Yes, we realize some of you are still thinking, "Science policy-boring!" Hang in there.

Let's explore this topic with a couple real-world examples.


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