The 'Sokal affair' takes transatlantic turn
Article Abstract:
A hoax perpetrated by American physicist Alan Sokal has fuelled an international debate over the validity of 'postmodernist ideas' about the nature of scientific knowledge. Sokal combined quotations from leading postmodern writers with questionable statements of scientific 'fact' and passed it off as an analysis of the social and political origins of ideas in quantum mechanics. He submitted the paper to the journal 'Social Text' and was accepted. The hoax's implication that sociologists of science are more concerned about intellectual fashions than empirical truths has elicited strong reactions in both sides of the Atlantic.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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'If knowledge is king, we may need a republican revolution.'
Article Abstract:
The quality of a scientific concept can only be assessed by a thorough peer-review process with its own proven rules of procedure. It is possible for the authority given to science by this process to be used negatively or positively. If used negatively, authority based on the peer-review process can boost the control of the strong over the weak and increase the division between wealthy and poor. Science has certainly become very powerful, but the role of science must be reviewed as the 21st century begins.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2000
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Britain seeks transgenics deal to fend off transatlantic trade war
Article Abstract:
Issues are presented concerning the proposals being put forward by the United Kingdom at the G8 summit in July 2001 which are aimed at averting a transatlantic trade war. The dispute over transgenic crops is discussed.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2001
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