Question

On what grounds would you restrict scientfic autonomy?

Answer 1

Science science follows a doctrine of objectivity and impartial skepticism and openness to different systems of knowledge. In the search for truth, the scientific method claims proclivities of autonomy and rationality and it justifies the independence of the scientific community based on the idea that scientifically oriented researchers are governed by scientifc norms of generalisability, objectivity, empiricism in their practice. However, this does not mean that scientific norms describe scientific conduct as well. they are ideal standards that individual researchers or research communities sometimes fail to live up to. And it is in such a context that scientific autonomy may be opened to criticisms.

Often enough, a scientific research may propose to make a significant impact in revealing truth but this may collide with social values. In such a context, science’s right to self-governance may be reconsidered. Although scientific autonomy may be justified because it promotes the progress of science, which benefits society, but the restrictions on autonomy can also be defended on the grounds of preventing harm done to people by controversial research, to the values of society, or the environment, and to encourage beneficial research.

Many scientifc norms, such as honesty, openness, community, and freedom, have an ethical and epistemological dimension. But these epistemological principles are also grounded in the larger context of society and thus social values and humanity become crucial bases for evaluating the limits of scientific autonomy.