“Science on Display”: The Russian Phenomenon of Science Popularization in Eric Ashby’s Perspective

Abstract

This article considers the popularization of Soviet science through the lens of the Australian botanist Eric Ashby, the author of the book “Scientist in Russia” published in New York in 1947. Although it has gone unnoticed in Russian historiography, this publication deserves thoughtful consideration for many reasons. Firstly, it addresses the current problem of public history. Secondly, it clarifies the role of cultural factors and national traditions in the development of Soviet science. Thirdly, it sheds light on the formation of a system of values in relation to science and scholars, which is closely linked to commemorative events. As an attentive foreign observer, E. Ashby succeeded in sketching his ideas about Soviet science. Here, his viewpoints are analyzed. The conceptualizing of the phenomenon of science popularization associated with academic anniversaries is discussed with respect to the celebration of the 220th anniversary of the USSR Academy of Sciences in June 1945, in which E. Ashby participated. The conclusions drawn from the study are as follows. E. Ashby related the extensive popularization of Soviet science to cultural paradigm, Russian literature, pre-revolutionary enlightenment practices, and the practical concept of applied knowledge. He emphasized the important role of science popularization in elevating the status of scientific knowledge and scholars in Soviet society. However, he also stressed possible negative consequences of overpopularized science, such as the hierarchization of the academic community based on popularity rather than scientific achievements.