Speakers

‹ Back

Professor Adebayo Olukoshi

Distinguished Professor, Wits School of Governance, University of Witwatersrand

Abstract

Abstract:
We live in a world of multiple diversities which, if fully mastered, will represent an asset for… (more)

We live in a world of multiple diversities which, if fully mastered, will represent an asset for global scientific advancement. However, in spite of successive efforts are redressing various assymetries in the production, dissemination, and consumption of scientific knowledge, wide gulfs still exist that effectively mean that science has been unable to embody and reflect the full range of diversities in our world. The gulfs that have persisted and been reproduced over the ages underly the case that must continue to be made for much greater justice in science. I focus in my short presentation on North-South assymetries of power in global sciebce. Within these assymetries, I also note the absence of African voices, the marginalisation of women, and  the disadvantaging of younger scientists. These imbalances in the world of science also have a racial dimension to them that must be redressed. In recent years, we have also seen the emergence of sharp imbalances among bodies of knowledge that are an increasing cause for concern. Contemporary efforts at redressing the injustices in science will be highlighted and proposals for further action tabled for discussion.