Science as Care: Science and Innovation in Post-growth Society

Abstract

Science and innovation have been closely connected with the goal of economic growth. But currently, as most of the industrialized countries are experiencing chronic economic stagnation owing to the maturation of material consumption, and the alternative measurement of wealth other than GDP or “happiness studies” is being widely discussed, the fundamental objective of science and technology is put into question and we need a new perspective or value regarding the aim of science and innovation. In this context, I examine the possibility of a “Sustainable Welfare Society,” as a relevant social vision that means a society where the well-being of individuals and distributional justice are realized in a sustainable manner under finite natural resources and environment. And in this connection, I take up two policy areas relating to science and innovation—health and renewable energy—, paying attention to the relationships between technological innovation and social environments. Based upon these explorations, I would like to propose “Science as Care” as a possible new direction and conceptualization of science in Post-Growth Society.