Hugh Lacey and values in contemporary science: era of technology and crises

Abstract

This article provides an understanding of Hugh Lacey's ideas regarding the influence of values in contemporary science. We explore the interaction between scientific activity and values, fostering critical awareness of scientific practice and its impact on society. The aim is to fill gaps in the comprehension of cognitive, social, and ethical values, considering how they have been shaped by technological transformations and sociocultural crises. A comprehensive literature review examines Lacey's key tenets presented in works such as "Values and Scientific Activity 1 and 2" and Oliveira's "From Cognitive Science to Dialectic", as well as articles in scientific databases and communications with the philosopher in 2023. According to him, values and science should be intrinsically linked, provided there is impartiality in scientific assessments. This relationship does not compromise the ongoing pursuit of a robust understanding of the phenomena in the world. The results highlight the relevance of Lacey's perspectives on values in contemporary science, as in contexts such as transgenic research, which raises crucial ethical questions. The applications of such research can have profound impacts, highlighting the importance of ethics.