08 Ago The Interdependence of Science and Business
Science has been the basis of many of the most important technological advancements in the world. From new treatments for cancer and energy production to computer chip technology. While innovation is the main driving force behind science however, business is all about making money and keeping shareholders satisfied. Traditionally the business and science worlds were seen as distinct entities. However, they are interconnected and it is impossible to disentangle the impact of research in science from its business impacts.
While business is focused on profits, the long-term effects of their decisions could have significant environmental, social and economic effects. Science is also concerned about the impacts of its actions and its decisions, particularly those regarding the exploitation of resources and sustainability. A shrewd business, for example will exploit a natural resource at the level that scientists consider as sustainable – but the greed of certain businesses has resulted in over-exploitation and environmental catastrophe.
We have coded the desired outcomes and effects of these strategies. (TL did the initial programming and AG coded 20% of the papers). We found that corporations employ five macro-level strategies that work collectively to diminish the credibility of unfavourable research and increase the credibility of favorable science. These strategies are implemented via meso-strategies, which over time skew evidence in favour of the industry. This has three distal effects: to cast doubt on the potential harms that are caused by the use of industry products and practices; to encourage policy solutions that are in favour of industry; and to maximise the sales, consumption, and use of products from industry.