The Intersection of Science, Politics, and Democracy: Understanding the Role of Knowledge in Governance

2023-06-26 13:22:25

In their keynote speeches, political scientist Marc Geddes from the University of Edinburgh and legal scholar Iris Eisenberger from the University of Vienna focused on the relationship between science and politics. Against the background of disinformation, the loss of trust in politics and challenges such as the pandemic and the climate crisis, this is more important and urgent than ever, argued Geddes. For him, parliaments are “knowledge institutions”: Knowledge is collected, produced and evaluated during the parliamentary process. Democracy and knowledge are inextricably linked, Geddes also stressed. Because who is listened to has an influence on who is involved in the parliamentary process – and who is not.

Eisenberger advocated a clear separation of duties between experts and politicians in legislation. While experts should provide knowledge, it is the responsibility of politicians to set priorities and make responsible decisions. The legal scholar also advocated a reduction in the pace of the use of artificial intelligence programs. In their current form, these are a challenge for liberal democracies.

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