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Scientific Communication Observed with Social Systems Theory. An Introduction and Outlook to Pure Science for Society

Author

Listed:
  • Steffen Roth

    (Excelia Business School
    Kazimieras Simonavičius University)

  • Krešimir Žažar

    (Kazimieras Simonavičius University
    University of Zagreb)

  • Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes

    (FHWien der WKW, Vienna University of Applied Sciences for Management and Communication)

  • Lars Clausen

    (Kazimieras Simonavičius University
    UCL University College)

Abstract

In this article, we introduce the reader to a social systems-theoretical concept of science, with particular emphasis on the role of theorising within a functionally differentiated society. Six cases are presented that demonstrate how social systems theory serves as both theory and method, thereby offering an insightful super-theoretical framework relevant to both conceptual and empirical studies. We conclude that social systems theory facilitates the pursuit of science for science’s sake by effectively challenging persistent self-confusions of society with politics or any other subsystem of society. As a result, the artificial distinction between science for the sake of science and science for the sake of society is overcome, and science for sake of society simply represents a return of science to its own function.

Suggested Citation

  • Steffen Roth & Krešimir Žažar & Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes & Lars Clausen, 2024. "Scientific Communication Observed with Social Systems Theory. An Introduction and Outlook to Pure Science for Society," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 251-260, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:syspar:v:37:y:2024:i:3:d:10.1007_s11213-024-09670-6
    DOI: 10.1007/s11213-024-09670-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Anahit Hakobyan, 2024. "Correction to: Communicating Scientific Knowledge as News on Social Media: Analyses in Frames of Luhmann’s System Theory," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 321-321, June.
    2. Margit Neisig, 2024. "The Role of Management Science in Forming Next Era Semantics," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 297-307, June.
    3. Leydesdorff, Loet, 2000. "The triple helix: an evolutionary model of innovations," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 29(2), pages 243-255, February.
    4. Anahit Hakobyan, 2024. "Communicating Scientific Knowledge as News on Social Media: Analyses in Frames of Luhmann’s System Theory," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 309-320, June.
    5. Roth, Steffen & Schwede, Peter & Valentinov, Vladislav & Žažar, Krešimir & Kaivo-oja, Jari, 2019. "Big data insights into social macro trends (1800–2000): A replication study," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 149(C).
    6. Steffen Roth, 2024. "Truth Tables, True Distinctions. Paradoxes of the Source Code of Science," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 261-267, June.
    7. Margit Neisig, 2017. "Transition in Complex Polycentric Contexts: Trusting and Multifunctional Semantics," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 34(2), pages 163-181, March.
    8. Kosuke Sakai, 2024. "Advice as a Form of Structural Coupling: Intersystem Organizations and Scientific Communication in the Japanese Response to COVID-19," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 37(3), pages 269-281, June.
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