Global Science

Science operates on a global stage, but this is not a recent phenomenon. Our research group explores the relationship between global history and science studies. Science here is broadly construed. Histories of natural knowledge, technology and medicine all fall under the remit of this group. By adopting this approach we look to invite discussion on the relationship between the politics of globalisation and the making of the very category of ‘science’. What counts as science is precisely the product of a series of uneven historical encounters. Often the transit of scientific material, from books to barometers, relied on the lopsided development of colonialism and global capitalism. We therefore hope to trace, not only the movement of science across borders, but also the limits of the apparent globalisation of scientific knowledge.

In 2013-2014 we bring together speakers from history, geography and anthropology. By drawing on academics from across disciplines, we offer a new base for the growing network of academics working on global histories of science.