From science and society to science in society : towards a framework for 'co-operative research'

This report arises from intensive discussions at an innovative two-day 'Gover'Science' Seminar organised by the Governance and Scientific Advice Unit of DG RTD in November 2005. The Seminar focused on a variety of complex and hotly contested questions that are central to current efforts to move Europe towards a 'knowledge based society'. What is the appropriate role for science in the governance of modern society? How should research itself be governed? What is the function of public engagement? Attention focused on a variety of detailed topical areas: including the communication of risk, the provision of science advice, relations between government, industry and civil society and the best ways to balance involvement by experts, stakeholders and citizens.