Can science retain independence and objectivity in the face of demands to meet commercial and public policy objectives?
In what ways is scientific discourse privileged in the formation of public policy?
How can scientific knowledge and scientific methodology be made compatible with the interdisciplinary and integration required of public policy discourse and formation?
Strategies
Over 20 speakers and 100 thinkers and policy actors convened in Saskatoon to examine
the interconnectivity of public policy issues with human well-being and the tensions this produces.
$80,000 in funding partnership recruited
Speakers were asked to provide papers one month in advance for publication
Targeted scientists-private, governmental or university based; graduate students
Results
Over 125 registrants met for 2 ½ days
Excellent cross section of delegates inspiring lots of dialogue and flow of ideas.
Better understanding of the issues and potential solutions.
