Big mission science and large infrastructure projects take a systems-based approach. Can we do the same for sustainability science?
Guest blog by ISC Science Director Vanessa McBride’s contribution to the plenary session at the XXXII General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) titled “Science for Society” explores the need for transdisciplinary mission-based science. Originally published here. We often talk about the science of astronomy and its impact on society. But today I would like to make the case that we should be thinking not about science for society, but rather that Science is society – that is – it is part of the very fabric of society. As children we learn science through play and experimentation. This is the foundation of science, and so by its very nature, it is part of all of us. The mission of the International Science Council (ISC) is to “advance science as a global public good”. A global public good is essentially defined in the name. It means it has to be of broad benefit, and it should be free at the point of delivery. Providing it means that scien...