In recent years governments and scientific establishments have been encouraging the development of professional and popular science communication. This book critically examines the origin of this drive to improve communication, and discusses why simply improving scientists’ communication skills and understanding of their audiences may not be enough. Written in an engaging style, and avoiding specialist jargon, this book provides an insight into science’s place in society by looking at science communication in three contexts: the professional patterns of communication among scientists, popular communication to the public, and science in literature and drama. This three-part framework shows how historical and cultural factors operate in today’s complex communication landscape, and should be actively considered when designing and evaluating science communication. Ideal for students and practitioners in science, engineering and medicine, this book provides a better understanding of the culture, sociology and mechanics of professional and popular communication.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“… a fascinating exploration of past and current trends, with some insight into what the future may hold.” Rachel Zelkowitz, Science News
“This book is most valuable for its broad but organized perspective on science communication and for its wealth of relevant historical and policy information. Rather than easy answers, readers will likely come away with hard questions about how best to proceed in their careers, education, and their lives as people in the service of communicating science. The depth of the author’s experience makes for a treatise that is unparalleled in its perspectives on the field of science communication.” Doody’s Review Service
“The book provides a great overview of the development of scientific literature and all of its implications, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the publication of scientific results.” Jens Lichtenberg, reviews.com
“Based on the author’s considerable research and reflection, this book is both interesting and illuminating. Anyone with even a peripheral interest in science will gain a deeper appreciation of science as a complex dimension of human civilization by reading this work. Highly recommended.” V.V. Raman, Choice Magazine
Book Description
Ideal for students and practitioners in science, engineering and medicine, this book gives an insight into science’s place in society.
About the Author
Nicholas Russell is Emeritus Reader in Science Communication in the Department of Humanities at Imperial College, London.
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