We welcome the presentation of communications that in some way deal with these issues. Please send a title and abstract (max. 300 words) to: ana.delicado@ics.ul.pt & monica.truninger@ics.ul.pt. Deadline for abstracts: 30 September 2010

Lay-Expert-Policymaker Engagements - A one-day conference - 29 November 2010 - ICS-UL

The aim of this seminar is to discuss theoretical frameworks and present case studies regarding the engagements that occur between experts (usually scientists, engineers and physicians) and the lay public, as well as policy makers.

The pervasiveness of science and technology in contemporary life, coupled with the demand for democratic decision-making, calls for an ever-increasing communication between experts and lay people. Experts need to convey information to the public regarding research results, scientific knowledge and risk or impact assessments, but also the public needs to express their concerns, their opinions as well as their own lay knowledge to experts.

There are several instances of lay-expert interface, such as environmental risks, health issues, techno-scientific controversies, the adoption of new technologies, public understanding or engagement with science initiatives. In some cases experts and the public are allies, in other cases adversaries. There are also different experts and different publics involved in the same issues.

Policy intervention in these areas often demands both scientific advice and consultation of the wider public. But how decision makers envisage and take into account the inputs originating from science or from society vary widely. Such variety may have serious implications in the success of policy implementation and public acceptance of practices' change.

We welcome the presentation of communications that in some way deal with these issues. Please send a title and abstract (max. 300 words) to: ana.delicado@ics.ul.pt & monica.truninger@ics.ul.pt.

Invited speakers: Maria Eduarda Gonçalves (ISCTE-IUL), Brian Wynne (Univ. Lancaster) and Elizabeth Shove (Univ. Lancaster)

Organisation: Ana Delicado & Mónica Truninger (GET - Grupo de Estudos de Ciência e Tecnologia)

Deadline for abstracts: 30 September 2010


CALL FOR PAPERS PDF