Science and SocietyEthics, Science, and the Public

Major scientific breakthroughs deepen our understanding of the universe, nature, and ourselves. Such discoveries have the potential to transform our everyday lives, yet the same science that holds promise for progress often raises concerns and questions for society. Who bears responsibility for broad ethical considerations for scientific discoveries? When is it optimal to evaluate implications and risks? How can publics be empowered to take part in the dialogue?

Motivated by our founder’s vision to advance science for the benefit of humanity, we launched two Kavli Centers for Ethics, Science and the Public, at UC Berkeley and Cambridge University. The Centers focus on addressing an unmet need within all of science: a proactive and sustained effort to connect scientists, ethicists, social scientists, science communicators, and publics to discuss potential impacts of scientific discoveries. Our Science and Society program also partners with other like-minded organizations to engage publics in the ethical and societal implications that accompany breakthrough discoveries.