Review
"Sismondo's much-needed book fills a gap left by existing introductions to the field of science and technology studies. It consistently and usefully integrates philosophical concerns with the critical social science perspectives that have dominated the field. It also offers excellent capsule surveys of some of the field's most influential thinkers."
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Sheila Jasanoff, Harvard University"This book is a wonderful tool with which to think. It offers an expansive introduction to the field of science studies, a rich exploration of the theoretical terrains it comprises and a sheaf of well-reasoned opinions that will surely inspire argument."
--Geoffrey C. Bowker, University of California, San Diego
"Science and technology studies is one of the most important and exciting new interdisciplinary fields in the academy. Sergio Sismondon is to be congratulated for producing an introductory textbook that is authoritative, accessible, and without rival. This book quickly become an indispensable teaching aid."
--Trevor Pinch, Cornell University
"For an introduction to science and technology studies, one cannot find a better book. Sismondo sets a high standard for clarity of writing for books aimed at university students. The important historical background blends well with the underlying philosophical and sociological concepts. Extremely important to all readers are the boxed-text case studies, definitions, and examples that permeate and intelligently adorn every chapte. The index and references immensely help readers desiring to learn more." (Choice, November 2003)
“Carefully argued and well balanced…topics are handled with a clarity and lightness... overall impression…of a field with solid foundations that is looking to the future.”
ISIS
Book Description
This volume provides a roadmap to the complex interdisciplinary terrain of science and technology studies. The book presents the historical background for this burgeoning field, focusing on the central debates and key theoretical advances. Topics include realism and social construction, discourse and rhetoric, objectivity, the role of experiment and theory, controversies, and the critique of science and technology. Distinctive in its attention to the underlying philosophical and sociological aspects of science and technology, and written specifically with students in mind, An Introduction to Science and Technology Studies is ideal for those new to this exciting and controversial area of study.
