Science in Society

'One of the best introductions I have seen to science studies. Giving more than just a pedantic survey, Matthew David provides a rich and detailed understanding of how social science can address natural science, and offers his own perspective on salient controversies in science.' - Professor Stanley Aronowitz, Graduate Centre, City University of New York 'Matthew David's book is a good place to learn about the many approaches to the sociology of science without being trapped by any one academic fashion.' - Professor Harry Collins, Cardiff University 'The outstanding merits of the text are its extraordinary breadth of coverage of literature and its citation of case studies. An impressive text with an original perspective.' - Professor Barry Barnes, University of Exeter 'Bravo! At last a text in the social studies of science which refuses to fall into the micro/macro divide in the field, but instead seeks to bring perspectives together.' - Professor Hilary Rose, City University, London

This text provides a general framework for understanding, combining and applying the rich range of approaches that exist within sociology about science: in particular, the role (and limitations) of science in generating knowledge, and the relationship between scientific knowledge and social progress.Science/Technoscience has moved to centre-stage in debates over change, power and justice in twenty-first century societies. This text provides a general framework for understanding, combining and applying the rich range of approaches that exist within sociology about science: in particular, the role (and limitations) of science in generating knowledge, and the relationship between scientific knowledge and social progress. Drawing on case studies from the past up until today's new genetics, this is a clear, even-handed and comprehensive introduction to the field.