Scientific Testimony: Its roles in science and society

Scientific Testimony argues that intra-scientific testimony is essential for science and provides an account of public scientific testimony to the lay population. It develops epistemic norms for intra-scientific testimony and discusses how public scientific testimony is best embedded in society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Scientific testimony is a crucial aspect of science and society, and this book offers a positive alternative to the traditional slogan of the Royal Society, Nullius in verba (Take nobody's word for it). The book argues that intra-scientific testimony, or testimony between collaborating scientists, is not in conflict with the spirit of science or an add-on to scientific practice. On the contrary, intra-scientific testimony is a vital part of science, essential for advancing knowledge and understanding.

The book articulates epistemic norms of intra-scientific testimony and demonstrates how they are essential to scientific methodology, on par with other scientific norms governing scientific observation and data analysis. It also provides an account of public scientific testimony, or scientific testimony to the lay population. This is achieved by integrating philosophical resources with empirical research on the science of science communication. For example, various misconceptions about science and folk epistemological biases are diagnosed as factors contributing to science skepticism. This diagnosis provides the basis for developing novel norms for science communication that are sensitive to the psychological and social obstacles to laypersons' uptake of scientific knowledge.

The book discusses how public scientific testimony is best embedded in society and argues that it is critical for societies that pursue the ideals of deliberative democracy. It explores the role of scientific testimony in shaping public policy, informing public debate, and promoting scientific literacy. The book also addresses the challenges and ethical considerations associated with scientific testimony, such as the potential for bias, conflicts of interest, and the need for transparency and accountability.

Overall, Scientific Testimony provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the roles of scientific testimony in science and society. It offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of science in society and the importance of effective science communication.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 242 x 163 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198857273