Since the 19th century, scientists have sought to communicate with people outside of science. In doing so, scientists have invited the public to weigh in on what science does and who does it. This interaction has allowed science to become, as the ESHS theme suggests, “one of the primary means by which mankind understands, represents and intervenes in the world”. Humanity has come to look to science for answers to the challenges that threaten its future in large part because of science communication. This symposium will explore the ways in which scientists have sought to communicate with the public, why they have done this, and to reflect on the impact of science communication on the historical practice and profile of science.
We welcome presentations from the fields of history of science, science communication, and history of medicine dealing with topics such as (but not limited to):
• History of science communication
• Science and politics
• Science journalism
• Misinformation and quackery
• Popular science education
• Scientific performance and science circuses
• Exhibitions and science museums
• Science and the media
Please contact Laura Dawes, Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University at Laura.Dawes@anu.edu.au to indicate your interest