Introduction to Science and Technology Studies (eBook)

Sergio Sismondo teaches Philosophy and Sociology at Queen's University, Canada. He is the author of Science Without Myth: On Constructions, Reality, and Social Knowledge (1995), The Art of Science (with Boris Castel, 2003), and numerous articles on subjects ranging from computer simulation to pharmaceutical research.

Preface vii

1 The Prehistory of Science and Technology Studies 1

2 The Kuhnian Revolution 12

3 Questioning Functionalism in the Sociology of Science 23

4 Stratification and Discrimination 36

5 The Strong Programme and the Sociology of Knowledge 47

6 The Social Construction of Scientific and Technical Realities
57

7 Feminist Epistemologies of Science 72

8 Actor-Network Theory 81

9 Two Questions Concerning Technology 93

10 Studying Laboratories 106

11 Controversies 120

12 Standardization and Objectivity 136

13 Rhetoric and Discourse 148

14 The Unnaturalness of Science and Technology 157

15 The Public Understanding of Science 168

16 Expertise and Public Participation 180

17 Political Economies of Knowledge 189

References 205

Index 236

"Sergio Sismondo's book represents a very useful and
clear introduction to Science and Technology Studies (STS), a
relatively new academic field that has at its core the relationship
between scientific knowledge, technological systems, and society .
. . The rich set of references can help readers who want to learn
more." (Theor Med Bioeth, 1 May 2012)

Praise for first edition

"For an introduction to science and technology studies, one
cannot find a better book. Sismondo sets a high standard for
clarity of writing for books aimed at university students. The
important historical background blends well with the underlying
philosophical and sociological concepts. Extremely important to all
readers are the boxed-text case studies, definitions, and examples
that permeate and intelligently adorn every chapte. The index and
references immensely help readers desiring to learn more."
(Choice, November 2003)

"Carefully argued and well balanced...topics are handled
with a clarity and lightness... overall impression...of a field
with solid foundations that is looking to the future."
(ISIS)

Praise for first edition

"Sismondo's much-needed book fills a gap left by existing
introductions to the field of science and technology studies. It
consistently and usefully integrates philosophical concerns with
the critical social science perspectives that have dominated the
field. It also offers excellent capsule surveys of some of the
field's most influential thinkers."

-Sheila Jasanoff, Harvard University

"This book is a wonderful tool with which to think. It offers an
expansive introduction to the field of science studies, a rich
exploration of the theoretical terrains it comprises and a sheaf of
well-reasoned opinions that will surely inspire argument."

-Geoffrey C. Bowker, University of California, San
Diego

"Science and technology studies is one of the most important and
exciting new interdisciplinary fields in the academy. Sergio
Sismondon is to be congratulated for producing an introductory
textbook that is authoritative, accessible, and without rival. This
book quickly become an indispensable teaching aid."

-Trevor Pinch, Cornell University