Responsibility and science communication: scientists' experiences of and perspectives on public communication activities. Issue 2 (4th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Loroño-Leturiondo, Maria; Davies, Sarah R.
• Is Part Of: Journal of responsible innovation. Volume 5:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 170
• Page End: 185
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04
• Subjects: Responsible research and innovation -- responsibility -- science communication -- face-to-face communication -- self-efficacy; Technological innovations -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; Technological innovations -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Technological innovations -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 174.96
• DOI: 10.1080/23299460.2018.1434739
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2329-9460

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Public communication of science and technology is central to ideas about responsible research and innovation (RRI). This paper presents findings from a focus group study, carried out with natural scientists based in the Basque Country, which explored researchers' ideas about public communication. We identify three key themes from this data: these scientists framed successful science communication as producing emotionally 'good experiences' for audiences; they depicted such communication as a responsibility that they had to society and that was thus carried out for the good of the public; and they described themselves as responsible for the success of science communication. Scientists thus emphasised their own responsibility for ensuring a successful science communication process. In closing we reflect on what these findings mean for the promotion and practice of RRI, suggesting that a greater focus should be placed on the character of responsibility as well as its presence.