Vladimir de Semir

Spanish PCST and the European Science in Society Strategy

The dissemination of scientific culture and the public communication of science and technology have come of age in the academic, social, cultural and political fields. However, there is still a long way to go. Europe aims to strengthen a specific model in the ‘Science in Society’ strategy, while all the sectors involved are undergoing enormous changes that result from adapting to the communication and knowledge society. These changes are fundamentally linked to the development of information and communication technologies, but involve a radical economic, social and cultural adjustment. The internet marks a turning point—as did the printing press in its day—in the way things are done. The spread of science in this context is easier and more complex at the same time, although this appears paradoxical. The way has been opened for the public communication of science to be part of cultural programs at all levels, as occurred with the genesis and evolution of environmental concerns and movements. However, considerable political will at all levels (states, regions, cities) is still needed to make the necessary qualitative leap. In this regard, Spain has provided a good laboratory over the past 30 years for initiatives and experiences in the public communication of science and technology.

Report: Scientific Knowledge from, for and through Cultural Diversity The 8th International Conference on the Public Communication of Science and Technology

Under the theme of “scientific knowledge and cultural diversity,” Barcelona brought together in the first week of June 2004 more than six hundred people from every continent at the 8th International Conference on the Public Communication of Science and Technology. This open network of professionals extends to more than fifty countries and embraces the different aspects of science communication, including journalism, museology, research into scientific communication, and policies for scientific culture promotion, among others. On this particular occasion, the need to establish effective dialogue between the different forms of local knowledge and scientific knowledge was discussed and developed. The aim was not only to preserve cultural diversity but also to contribute to developing human knowledge and instilling a culture of peace. Various experiences demonstrated the essential role of the scientific communicator in this context.