The Economics of Science, Neoliberal Thought, and the Loss of Democracy

Abstract

I consider this chapter the linchpin that connects the chapters around the theme of science and democracy. I begin with a look at the rise and dominance of the Neoliberal Thought Collective and how this collective has destroyed democracies in the United States in particular. I rely on the work of Philip Mirowski and Wendy Brown in this section. This I discuss the tradition of distrusting and public involvement in science and the creation of the myth that science is inherently democratic and people need not get involved. I include of critique of Friedrich Hayek, Michael Polyani, and Thomas Kuhn’s work from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s in which they rationalize the separation of science from democratic, public institutions and suggest the republic of science is merely for scientists. I also note how recent thought, especially the work of Helga Nowotny, in some ways accepts this argument developed by Hayek, Polyani, and Kuhn. I think move into a discussion of Harry Collins and Robert Evans’ work on expertise and how their model can promote more public involvement in science matters.