Science Between Myth and History: The Quest for Common Ground and Its Importance for Scientific Practice

Science Between Myth and History explores the influence of historical narrative on scientific communication, highlighting the role of myth-histories as a chimeric genre that bridges distinct narrative modes. It examines the unintended consequences of storytelling in science, such as teaching, building consensus, and informing the broader public. The book encourages scientists to take more account of the stories they tell and the image of science they project, particularly in a time of eroding common ground and distrust of scientific research.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Scientists frequently employ historical narrative as a rhetorical tool in their communication of science, yet there has been limited reflection on its effects within scientific communities and beyond. Science Between Myth and History seeks to unravel these threads of influence. The stories scientists tell are not merely poorly researched scholarly histories; they are myth-histories, a chimeric genre that bridges distinct narrative modes. This study extends beyond polarizing questions about who owns the history of science and establishes a common ground from which to better understand the messy and lasting legacy of the stories scientists tell. Its primary objective is to stimulate vigorous conversation among science practitioners, scholars, and communicators. Scientific myth-histories undoubtedly deliver value, coherence, and inspiration to their communities. They are tools used to broker scientific consensus, resolve controversies, and navigate power dynamics. However, beyond the explicit intent and rationale behind their use, these narratives possess significant rhetorical power and social agency that often yield unintended consequences. This book unpacks the concept of myth-history and explores four case studies in which scientist storytellers employ their narratives to teach, build consensus, and inform the broader public. From geo-politically informed quantum interpretation debates to high-stakes gene-editing patent disputes, these case studies illustrate the implications of storytelling in science. Science Between Myth and History urges scientists not to eschew writing about their history but to take greater account of the stories they tell and the image of science they project. In this era of eroding common ground, when many find themselves dependent on, yet distrustful of scientific research, this book offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between science, myth, and history.

Weight: 624g
Dimension: 147 x 222 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198864967