Science in a Democratic Society

Philosopher of science Philp Kitcher presents this timely and interesting exploration of the role of science in democracy. Addressing the propensity of democratic societies to debate all issues as if factual truth could be arrived at by a vote or debate, the work examines the role of the expert and the ways in which modern political discourse hampers clear applications of scientific works for the public good. The work addresses such topics as the erosion of scientific authority, the evolution of public knowledge and accommodating diversity and dissent. Kitcher is the author of twelve books on the philosophy of science. Annotation c2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Philip Kitcher (New York, NY) is John Dewey Professor of Philosophy at Columbia University. He is the author of twelve books, including Living with Darwin: Evolution, Design, and the Future of Faith; In Mendel’s Mirror: Philosophical Reflections on Biology; Science, Truth, and Democracy; and The Lives to Come: The Genetic Revolution and Human Possibilities. Professor Kitcher was the first recipient of the Prometheus Prize awarded by the American Philosophical Association for "lifetime contribution to expanding the frontiers of research in philosophy and science." He is also the winner of many other awards, most recently the Award for Distinguished Service to the Columbia Core Curriculum, the Lenfest Distinguished Faculty Award from Columbia University, the Lannan Foundation Notable Book Award (given for Living with Darwin), and the Friend of Darwin Award (given by the National Committee on Science Education).