Title: Scientists and the broader community

Authors: I.J. Barns, S.A. Wilson

Addresses: Institute of Science and Technology Policy, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia. ' Environmental Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia

Abstract: This paper describes the results of a survey of 108 environmental scientists employed as researchers in academic institutions in Australia. The objectives of the survey were: to gauge these scientists| perceptions of the political dimension of environmental research; to gauge the nature and extent of their own involvement in environmental politics; and to determine whether or not they believed scientists were adequately prepared for such involvement or whether more attention should be given to questions of ethics, politics and the media in the training of scientists. The survey results indicated a clear recognition on the part of senior environmental researchers of the need for political involvement and for a greater emphasis on the preparation of scientists in such areas as politics, ethics and the media. However, it highlighted obvious constraints on involvement in political activity and public communication.

Keywords: environmental ethos; environmental management; environmental scientists; environmental policy; environmental politics; Australia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEP.1996.028269

International Journal of Environment and Pollution, 1996 Vol.6 No.2/3, pp.142 - 148

Published online: 16 Sep 2009 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article