Wetenschapsvoorlichting en wetenschapsbeleid in Nederland 1900-1950

Abstract

Science policy and public understanding in the Netherlands, 1950-2000 'Public understanding' through science communication, is an integrated part of Dutch science and technology policy, in particular since that policy took firm shape with the appointment of a separate Cabinet minister in 1973. Meanwhile, the post has been abolished again, its responsibilities split up between the departments of Education, Culture and Science and of Economic Affairs. Nowadays, many organisations and initiatives in the field of science communication are funded from those two sources, both directly and indirectly. The Dutch government founds its endeavours in the area of public understanding on three general grounds: economic, democratic and cultural motives. Ideally, science communication was supposed to serve policy objectives in those broad areas more or less evenly. As long as such appeared to be the case, policy makers claimed little say in the nature, content or direction of the communication initiatives they supported. During the last decade however, under a Liberal-Labour coalition, a gradual policy shift has become apparent. Economic and especially labour market considerations took the upper hand in both policy objectives and government funding for science communication, with a clear emphasis on future professionals, i.e. secondary school students. Consequently, democratic and cultural approaches dropped behind. This shift of attention - and of corresponding funds - frustrates the effort, prompted by the same authorities, to gain a broader audience for communication about science and technology. To all appearances, a government white paper published in April this year will, in its effects, mainly serve to strengthen this lop-sided development.