Towards a Democratic Science: Report of the Workshop held at Moonfleet Manor, Dorset, 11-16 March 2001

Who does science work for? Why does new knowledge sometimes fail to improve our everyday lives? Who needs to be involved in the processes that develop – and respond to - new technologies? These were some of the questions discussed at the British Council seminar, ‘Towards a democratic science’. The aim was to identify the changes that need to be made to the communities, practices and culture of science, to allow people's needs and wishes to become embodied in scientific paths and technological developments. Using their diverse range of experiences, participants from around the world identified an agenda for a democratic science and more inclusive innovations.