Science and the Sociology of Knowledge (RLE Social Theory)

<p>How far is scientific knowledge a product of social life? In addressing this question the major contributors to the sociology of knowledge have agreed that the conclusions of science are dependent on social action only in a very special and limited sense. In <i>Science and the Sociology of Knowledge</i> Michael Mulkay's first aim is to identify the philosophical assumptions which have led to this view of science as special; and to present a systematic critique of the standard philosophical account of science showing that there are no valid epistemological grounds for excluding scientific knowledge from the scope of sociological analysis.</p><p>The rest of the book is devoted to developing a preliminary interpretation of the social creation of scientific knowledge. The processes of knowledge-creation are delineated through a close examination of recent case studies of scientific developments. Dr Mulkay argues that knowledge is produced by means of negotiation the outcome of which depends on the participants' use of <i>social</i> as well as <i>technical</i> resources. The analysis also shows how cultural resources are taken over from the broader social milieu and incorporated into the body of certified knowledge; and how in the political context of society at large scientists' technical as well as social claims are conditioned and affected by their social position.</p>