scienceanthropology

Scienceanthropology is a subfield of anthropology that focuses on the study of science as a human activity and cultural phenomenon. It examines how scientific knowledge is produced, transmitted, and used within different societies and historical contexts. Rather than solely focusing on the content of scientific theories, scienceanthropology investigates the social, cultural, and political dimensions of scientific practice. This includes exploring the roles of scientists, institutions, funding, and public perception in shaping scientific endeavors.

Key areas of inquiry within scienceanthropology include the anthropology of scientific knowledge, the study of laboratories and scientific communities, and the relationship between science and technology. Researchers in this field often employ ethnographic methods, spending time observing scientists in their workplaces to understand the practical realities of scientific work. They also analyze historical documents, scientific publications, and public discourse surrounding science.

The goal of scienceanthropology is to provide a nuanced understanding of science, recognizing it not as a purely objective or universal pursuit, but as a deeply human and culturally situated practice. It seeks to deconstruct the perceived divide between the "natural" and "social" sciences by applying anthropological perspectives to the study of both. This approach can illuminate how scientific authority is established, how consensus is built, and how scientific ideas become accepted or contested.