Sociology of scientific and technical controversies

Sociologists of science consider controversies to be 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 within the framework of institutionalized public debates or more informal exchanges. These controversies provide an opportunity to observe science and decisions in the making, as they are nourished by knowledge that has not yet stabilized. They provide examples from which to rethink the relationship between science and society, and in so doing, the challenges of technical democracy, at the interface of several disciplines.

The aim of the "Controversies" course is to make students in the Water and Society Master's program aware of the scientific and technical issues that constantly fuel debates about water and the environment. In a context of ecological crisis, where risks and warnings are proliferating, the aim is to introduce them, through theoretical sociological training (illustrated by case studies from various fields of knowledge), supplemented by an investigation into a controversy linked to water or the environment (set up in semester 2 as part of UE HMEA 212), to the uncertain universes they will be confronted with in the course of their professional and civic lives.

Prerequisites*: curiosity about earth and life sciences; good reading skills and a taste for discussion.

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

-individual exhibitions

-oral examination

-drafting of a programmatic controversy study report

1. Theoretical issues in the sociology of controversy

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

1. Science in the making

1. History of science and objectivity

1. Support for documentary studies of controversies

1. Knowledge production: tools and places

1. Survey strategy and qualitative methods

1. Uncertainties and unfinished science.

1. Expanding research groups: experts and laymen

1. Introduction to quantitative methods

1. Scientific issues in public debate

1. Introduction to quantitative methods (continued)

Each thematic session is introduced by the teacher 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 can be extended in semester two with a survey.