Book review: Potochnik, Angela (2024): Science and the Public

In her book Science and the Public, Angela Potochnik, a philosopher of science, undertakes a fresh and comprehensive examination of the multifaceted relationship between science and society. Published by Cambridge Elementals in 2024, this insightful work transcends conventional disciplinary boundaries to offer a profound philosophical exploration, enriched by empirical insights from the philosophy of science. Potochnik’s objective is not only to analyze the intricacies of this relationship but also to suggest ways to improve the relationship between science and the public.
She accomplishes this by demonstrating the value of combining philosophical exploration with empirical insights. She empha-
sizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on the Vienna Circle as a model for integrating philosophy,
science, and public discourse. Empirical studies, such as Feinstein’s work on scientific literacy, are employed to inform philosophical discussions on public engagement and trust in science. The book examines the cognitive role of idealizations in science, connecting philosophical theories with practical teaching strategies. ... mehrIt also advocates for ‘responsive science,’ aligning research with societal values and needs, thus demonstrating how empirical insights can enrich philosophical inquiries to address realworld issues effectively.