social studies of science

The social studies of science explore how social, cultural, political, and economic factors influence scientific research and knowledge production. It examines the ways scientists' backgrounds, institutions, and societal values shape what questions are asked, how experiments are conducted, and how results are interpreted. This field emphasizes that science is not just a neutral pursuit of truth but is embedded in and affected by broader societal contexts. By understanding these influences, the social studies of science aim to provide a more comprehensive view of how scientific knowledge develops and impacts society.