The COVID-19 mirror: reflecting science-society relationships across 11 countries
Journal article, 2020
Twelve researchers from 11 countries used autoethnographic techniques, keeping diaries over 10 weeks of the COVID-19 crisis, to observe and reflect on changes in the role and cultural authority of science during important stages of viral activity and government action in their respective countries. We followed arguments, discussions and ideas generated by mass and social media about science and scientific expertise, observed patterns and shifts in narratives, and made international comparisons. During regular meetings via video conference, the participating researchers discussed theoretical approaches and our joint methodology for reflecting on our observations. This project is informed by social representations theory, agenda-setting, and frames of meaning associated with the rise and fall of expertise and trust. This paper presents our observations and reflections on the role and authority of science in our countries from March 10 to May 31, 2020. This is the first stage of a longer-term project that aims to identify, analyse and compare changes in science-society relationships over the course of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Representations of science and technology
Public engagement with science and technology
Risk communication
Author
Jenni Metcalfe
Econnect Communication
Michelle Riedlinger
Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Martin W. Bauer
London School of Economics and Political Science
Anwesha Chakraborty
University of Bologna
Toss Gascoigne
Australian National University
Lars Guenther
Friedrich Schiller University Jena
Marina Joubert
Stellenbosch University
Margaret Kaseje
Tropical Institute of Community Health and Development
Susana Herrera Lima
ITESO University
Gema Revuelta
University Pompeu Fabra
Jan Riise
University of Gothenburg
Chalmers, Gothenburg Centre for Sustainable Development
Bernard Schiele
Université du Québec
Journal of Science Communication
18242049 (eISSN)
Vol. 19 7 1-23 1824-2049Subject Categories (SSIF 2011)
Didactics
Sociology (excluding Social work, Social Psychology and Social Anthropology)
Ethnology
DOI
10.22323/2.19070205