Mark Brown's Science in Democracy is a uniquely brilliant critical analysis of the bearing of canonic and contemporary philosophical and theoretical texts on the place of science in democratic politics and institutions. This book is a gift to the intelligent general lay reader but indispensable to scholars and students in this vibrant field.
Yaron Ezrahi, Professor of Political Science, Hebrew University of Jerusalem
There have been some notable books by political scientists working in STS, but this is the first book to systematically deal with the core problems of political theory from an STS standpoint. Written with accessible language, and organized through a historical framework, Science in Democracy is highly recommended for scholars and students of political theory.
Steve Fuller, Professor of Sociology, University of Warwick
This is more than a good book; it is the book anyone will have to read to be literate in the topic of science and democracy.
Frank Laird, Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver
Rather than adding one more demonstration of science's intertwinement with politics, or one more call for increased public participation in science policy, Brown proposes a rethinking of democratic institutions… [T]his book should be considered essential reading for those interested in ongoing discussions about the relationships between science and politics.
R. Holifield
Contemporary Political Theory
Science in Democracy presents a useful collection of arguments for anyone concerned with the politics of science… Democratizing science, [Brown] suggests, is less a matter of increasing public participation than of supporting a diverse ecology of modes of political representation.
A. Moore
Social Studies of Science
Not only does [Brown] grapple with the complex values that are required by democratic representation; he also looks at how various institutions can and do embody those values and how we might do better… His book is clearly a must-read for those engaged in this issue.
M.J. Brown
Isis
Brown...fights fire with fire, in the manner of Madison's treatment of factions: accept the politicization [of science] but fix the politics by creating a complex 'framework of democratic representation' throughout. His recommendations are quite detailed, and based on a deep, enjoyable analysis.... This is, in fact, a thinker's book, and one closes it with the thought that 'well, it just might work.' Highly recommended.
Choice
Honorable Mention, 2010 First Book Award, given by the Foundations of Political Theory section of the American Political Science Association
