Nico Stehr Book order

Understanding Society and Knowledge proposes that knowledge, rather than nature, violence, or power, provides the basis of and driving force behind human action in modern society. It demonstrates how the legal containment of knowledge enables the transformation of the knowledge society into knowledge capitalism. Providing an overview of the history of knowledge societies, Nico Stehr analyses the concept of knowledge as well as the nature of post-industrial societies. Chapters examine the genealogy of social scientific theories of modern society; the role of knowledge as a capacity to act or as an intersubjective resource; and recent changes in the structure of the material economy. The book concludes by discussing the political challenges of the knowledge society, highlighting the ways in which discoveries in modern knowledge and subsequent political responses continue to generate controversies. This illuminating book will be an essential resource for students and scholars of economics, political science, sociology and sociological theory, as well as science and technology studies.

Exploring the intersection of knowledge and economic growth, this book delves into how information and innovation drive modern capitalism. It examines the shift from traditional manufacturing to a knowledge-based economy, highlighting the importance of intellectual assets and human capital. The author analyzes the implications for businesses, workers, and policymakers, offering insights into strategies for thriving in a rapidly evolving landscape. Through case studies and theoretical frameworks, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics shaping contemporary economic practices.

Focusing on the implications of social surveillance and knowledge regulation, this work anticipates the emergence of a new political arena: knowledge policy. It explores how the growing volume of information will necessitate the regulation of knowledge dissemination, addressing the challenges and ethical considerations that arise in managing the flow of information in society.

Talk of knowledge is ubiquitous in the modern world. Whether we talk of know-how, innovation or education, knowledge is always involved. But despite its prominence, knowledge often remains nebulous. This book explores the category of knowledge from a sociological perspective, and traces the concept of knowledge as the very fabric of modern society.

Exploring the evolving relationship between knowledge and democracy, the book examines how increased reliance on specialized knowledge may threaten democratic practices. It questions whether an abundance of information hinders or enhances societal freedom, addressing the implications for citizens facing complex challenges. By analyzing the dynamics of knowledge production and the influence of modern media, it advocates for a redefined understanding of knowledge's societal role, introducing the idea of 'knowledge societies' as a vital resource for promoting liberty.

The book explores the significant role of science and scientists in shaping policy decisions, highlighting historical instances such as eugenics, Keynesian economics, and climate policy. It delves into the interplay between scientific research and governmental actions, illustrating how scientific theories and findings can drive social and economic policies. Through these examples, it critically assesses the impact of scientific thought on public policy and the ethical implications of such influences.

The book explores the significant impact of scientific ideas and the role of scientists in shaping public policy, focusing on historical examples such as eugenics, Keynesian economics, and climate policy. It delves into how these scientific concepts have influenced decision-making processes and societal outcomes, highlighting the intricate relationship between science and governance. Through these case studies, it reveals the complexities and consequences of integrating scientific knowledge into policy frameworks.

"Who Owns Knowledge? explores the emerging linkages between the extension of knowledge and the law. It anticipates that the legal system will not only be called upon to adjudicate in matters of creative minds, but will be expected to do so to an ever increasing degree." "Who Owns Knowledge? will be of interest to those interested in the subjects of intellectual property, the history and development of modern legal and economic systems and their entanglements, and how judicial systems make choices between the legal and economic systems and, especially, between the public and private good and their often opposing interests."--BOOK JACKET

The book presents a groundbreaking theory of markets that reflects the evolving landscape of consumer behavior. It emphasizes the impact of greater knowledge, wealth, and access to information on modern consumers, suggesting that these factors significantly alter traditional market dynamics. By exploring how these changes influence purchasing decisions and market interactions, the author provides insights into the future of commerce and consumer engagement.

This book argues that new technologies and society's response to them have created a relatively new phenomenon, "knowledge politics." Nico Stehr describes Western society's response to a host of new technologies developed only since the 1970s, including genetic experiments, test-tube human conception, recombinant DNA, and embryonic stem cells; genetically engineered foods; neurogenetics and genetic engineering; and reproductive cloning and the reconstruction of the human ancestral genome. He looks also at the prospective fusion of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, transgenic human engineering, and cognitive science whose products may, as its boosters claim, some day cure disease, slow the aging process, eliminate pollution, and generally enhance human performance. Knowledge Politics shows how human civilization has reached a new era of concern about the life-altering potentials of new technologies. Concerns about the societal consequences of an unfettered expansion of (natural) scientific knowledge are being raised more urgently and are moving to the center of disputes in society-- and thus to the top of the political agenda. Stehr explains the ramifications of knowledge politics and the approaches society could take to resolve difficult questions and conflicts over present and future scientific innovation.