Sociology of scientific and technical controversies

Sociologists of science consider that controversies are inherent to the process of knowledge production. They refer to (1) situations of discussion between scientists who oppose or agree on the data they produce, but also (2) mobilizations that develop in the context of institutionalized public debates or more informal exchanges. These controversies are an opportunity to observe science and decisions in the making, since they are nourished by knowledge that is not yet stabilized. They provide examples from which to rethink the relationship between science and society, and in so doing, the issues of technical democracy, at the interface of several disciplines.

The "Controversies" course aims to make students of the Master's degree in Water and Society aware of the scientific and technical issues that are constantly being debated about water and the environment. In a context of ecological crisis where risks and alerts proliferate, the aim is to introduce them, through a theoretical sociological training (illustrated by case studies from various fields of knowledge), completed by an investigation on a controversy related to water or the environment (implemented in semester 2 within the framework of the UE HMEA 212), to the uncertain universes they will be confronted with in the course of their professional and civic lives.

Prerequisites*: curiosity for earth and life sciences; strong reading skills and a taste for discussion

Recommended prerequisites*: notions of human and social sciences useful but not absolutely necessary, but a real commitment is expected to appropriate new approaches; fluent English useful

-individual exhibits

-oral examination

-Writing of a programmatic report on the study of controversies

1. Theoretical issues in the sociology of controversies

1. Example of a water controversy (film and discussion)

1. Science in the making

1. History of science and objectivity

1. Accompaniment in the documentary study of controversies

1. The production of knowledge: instruments and places

1. Survey strategy and qualitative methods

1. Uncertainties and unaccomplished sciences.

1. The extension of research collectives: experts and laymen

1. Introduction to quantitative methods

1. Scientific issues in the public debate

1. Introduction to quantitative methods (continued)

Each thematic session is introduced by the instructor and illustrated by student presentations. A list of texts to be read is provided before the first session. Time for group work and on-demand support is provided. The course may be extended in semester two with a survey.