Global problems and global science

Abstract

Motivated by recent debates and policy decisions in the UK about bovine spongiform encephalopathy, genetically modified (GM) foods, embryonic stem cell research and other topics, my 2002 Anniversary Address dealt with ‘Science and Society’. Although some of the discussion was general––for instance, the changing nature of the landscape of scientific facts, ideas and uncertainties as a subject moves from the early stages of discovery and exploration toward full understanding—most of the focus was on specific issues in the UK. In particular, I dwelt on protocols for handling science advice in policy making, drawing on UK examples, and indicating some of the shadows that fall between tidy principles and the messy problems that arise in their implementation.