Science has the potential to do much good. But it can also be misused and cause harm. How can researchers become aware of the risks and share their insights responsibly?
University of Denver Josef Korbel School of International Studies Professors Rachel Epstein and Oliver Kaplan have been researching premier scholars and practitioners to address cutting-edge dilemmas of “responsible policy engagement.” They reflect on their own experiences and discuss how to best communicate with policymakers while being transparent about the uncertainty and subtleties of the research process.
The case studies cover tricky policy engagements on topics ranging from postconflict power-sharing, atrocities prevention, NATO enlargement, economic crises and business and human rights to counterinsurgency and state-building, census data and polling, and intelligence analysis. To avoid pitfalls, the analyses offer a mix of ethical principles and practical advice, including setting cautionary ethical redlines, reflecting on one’s position and values and describing areas of consensus and degrees of uncertainty.
Speaking Science to Power uncovers the temptations scholars may face to share particular results, overgeneralize findings, conceal uncertainty, or curry favor with policymakers, and then urges them to act responsibly.
Recommended reading available at The Bookworm in Edwards:
“Speaking Science to Power: Responsible Researchers and Policymaking” by Rachel A. Epstein and Oliver Kaplan
Event SPEAKER(S)
Oliver Kaplan
Associate Professor at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies
University of Denver
Rachel A. Epstein
Professor of International Politics, Josef Korbel School of International Studies
University of Denver
