Heather Douglas on how values shape science advice

The practice of science is impossible without importing its values from society, and it's time to leave behind the notion of the independent science advisor who speaks truth to power. So argues Professor Heather Douglas, author of the influential book 'Science, Policy and the Value-Free Ideal'.

In this episode, Toby Wardman talks to Professor Douglas about how we can make sense of a scientific community imbued with a diverse mixture of ethical values, and which ideals should replace independence for those who give scientific advice to policymakers.

Heather Douglas works at Michigan State University and is a board member of the Peritia project on trust in science.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Science, Policy and the Value-Free Ideal: https://upittpress.org/books/9780822960263/
• Blackawton bee study: https://www.wired.com/2010/12/kids-study-bees/