Abstract

In most (Western) societies, expertise has become of the essence. It has permeated the realms of both private and public decision-making, and granted experts substantial power. Yet, in spite of – or perhaps due to – their prominent role, experts are often regarded with suspicion. While expertise is generally considered important for decision-making, the wider polity does not necessarily trust the experts to put their expertise to good use, i.e. to pursue the Greater Good.

This lack of trust undermines the relevance of expert knowledge and, in the more extreme cases, leads to its outright rejection. Hence the question: have people had enough of experts? We shall raise this question in the context of the U.K. The discussion will focus on role of experts in modern societies and ways to improve their perception by the general public.

The lecture will take place on the 7th of December in LT2 of the Judge Business School at 6pm. A drink reception will follow. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cuspe-lecture-has-the-uk-had-enough-of-experts-tickets-29310379133

The following speakers will present their perspectives:

- Max Goldman (Development and communications manager), Sense about Science

- Melanie Smallman, UCL & Harvard Kennedy School of Government

- Roeland Beerten (Director of Policy and Public Affairs), Royal Statistical Society