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

Steffen Roth (), Krešimir Žažar, Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes and Lars Clausen
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Steffen Roth: Excelia Business School
Krešimir Žažar: Kazimieras Simonavičius University
Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes: FHWien der WKW, Vienna University of Applied Sciences for Management and Communication
Lars Clausen: Kazimieras Simonavičius University

Systemic Practice and Action Research, 2024, vol. 37, issue 3, No 1, 260 pages

Abstract: 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.

Keywords: Social systems theory; Functional differentiation; Science; Grand challenges (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s11213-024-09670-6

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