In search of space: Fourier spectroscopy, 1950-1970

Johnston, S.F. (2000) In search of space: Fourier spectroscopy, 1950-1970. In: Shinn, T. and Joerges, B. (eds.) Instrumentation: between science, state and industry. Series: Sociology of the sciences, 22. Kluwer Academic, pp. 121-141. ISBN 0792367367

Abstract

In the large grey area between science and technology, specialisms emerge with associated specialists. But some specialisms remain ‘peripheral sciences’, never attaining the status of ‘disciplines’ ensconced in universities, and their specialists do not become recognised professionals. A major social component of such side-lined sciences – one important grouping of technoscientific workers – is the ‘research-technology community’. An important question concerning research-technology is to explain how the grouping survives without specialised disciplinary and professional affiliations. The case discussed illustrates the dynamics of one such community.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Keywords: Fourier spectroscopy; research technology; peripheral science; technical community; professionalizatoin
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Johnston, Professor Sean
• Authors: Johnston, S.F.
• Subjects: Q Science > Q Science (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social & Environmental Sustainability
• Publisher: Kluwer Academic
• ISBN: 0792367367
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers
• First Published: Dordrecht
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher