Living Handbook of Science Communication and Science Studies

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The Living Handbook of Science Communication and Science Studies is to present relevant concepts, topics, theories, and results related to the development of the science system and to make them accessible to different audiences. In this way, knowledge produced across the boundaries of science communication research, science studies, and cultural studies will be embedded in public discourse to a much greater extent than before. The Living Handbook is the centerpiece of the RRC’s transfer strategy. Its main purpose is to make explicit the wealth of tacit knowledge about science communication and the science system. The Living Handbook functions like an open-access encyclopedia, taking advantage of linking practices to provide clear-cut answers on how science is working. It is intended to become the central information platform for relevant questions about the science system for science policy makers, science journalists, science communicators, and students, as well as for the interested public. In contrast to a traditional handbook, each article conveys a clearly defined topic, either in written form or with multimedia support, aimed at the general public or addressing the interdisciplinary community with in-depth peer-reviewed articles (1 – 5 pages).

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    Scientific Disciplines
    (2025) Kreutzer, Tobias
    Despite a tendency to proclaim new paths to interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary knowledge production—both in academia and in science policy—scientific disciplines still constitute the core of academic identities, research practices, and organizational structures. This article provides an overview of the origins and dimensions of scientific disciplines, and highlights dimensions of disciplinarity relevant to science studies and science communication.
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    Living Handbook of Science Communication and Science Studies
    (2024-12-11) Griem, Julika; Kaldewey, David; Ruf, Oliver; Siess, Andreas; Wormer, Holger
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    Science Journalism
    (2025) Wormer, Holger
    There is a lot of confusion among both scientists and journalists about what exactly is meant by science journalism. This applies in particular to different normative assignments, according to which science journalism is often not seen as a critical observer (“fourth estate”) but as a mere explanatory format or even as a campaigner for research. This article gives a short overview of the historical development of the field, discusses possible synergies with and differentiations from other forms of science communication as well as triggers and specific topics for science reporting.
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    Science PR
    (2025) Tober, Sarah
    In the competition for reputation and resources, public relations (PR) has become increasingly important for scientific institutions. This article examines the legitimation function of science PR for universities and research institutions in Germany against the background of a controversial case of science PR. It illuminates the underlying reasons for the conflictual nature of science PR, proposes potential guidelines for its conduct, and delineates the boundaries to science journalism. Finally, it argues for placing trusting relationships at the heart of science PR.
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    Predatory Publishing
    (2025) Andreas, Siess
    This article investigates the ramifications of predatory publishing for the integrity of research and public trust in science. It delineates the phenomenon as the dissemination of scholarly works not subject to quality assurance and explores the motivation of both publishers and researchers to engage with such outlets. While the prevalence of predatory practices within academic databases and the complexities in distinguishing legitimate journals from predatory ones are critically examined, strategies to combat predatory publishing are also outlined.