Synopses & Reviews
Loren Graham examines how the Russian experience sheds light on the status and character of science and technology throughout the world. He looks at the question of whether science is a social construction, its development dependent on external, social factors, or whether it is governed by the demands of reality. He surveys the development of the largest scientific community in the world over just a few decades, and gives examples of certain areas of scientific abuse, such as the deviation of the Soviet Union from standard genetics for many years followed by its eventual restoration. While observing that scientific study in Russia was undoubtedly abused, Graham concludes by illustrating, however, that it has emerged strongly from these abuses, and argues that science can thrive despite a lack of political freedom, contrary to the expectations of Western analysts.
Synopsis
The world's leading authority on Soviet science looks at how science has been affected by the breakup of the Soviet Union.
Table of Contents
Preface; 1. Is science a social construction?; 2. Are science and technology Westernizing influences?; 3. How robust is science under stress?; 4. How willing are scientists to reform their own institutions?; 5. Who should control technology?; Conclusion; Notes; Index.