Public experiments: the science and art of scientific advice
Speaker James Wilsdon – Professor of Science and Democracy, SPRU
Organised by the University of Sussex as part of their free lecture series.
In October 1964, Sir Solly Zuckerman was appointed the UK Government’s first Chief Scientific Adviser. 50 years on, scientific advice has never been in greater demand; nor has it been more contested. From climate change to cyber-security, poverty to pandemics, food technologies to fracking, the questions being asked of scientists, social scientists and other experts continue to multiply whist at the same time, their authority and legitimacy is increasingly scrutinised.
To mark the 50th birthday of the institution, this lecture will describe how cultures of scientific advice in the UK have changed, to become more open, accountable and multidisciplinary. It will also explore whether the current enthusiasm for scientific advice and evidence-based policy is part of a broader shift towards more ‘experimental’ forms of government, and consider what this means for the relationship between experts, publics and democracy.
Following the lecture, Lord Rees of Ludlow, Astronomer Royal and former President of the Royal Society, will offer a brief response and vote of thanks.
This is an open public lecture and everyone is welcome to attend, but please book your place as numbers are limited.