2008 ASTC Annual Conference

International statesman and Scientist, Inventor and Printer, Benjamin Franklin played many roles during his lifetime. Propelled by his belief in the power of science to lead to social improvement around the world, Franklin created a public image—that of the civic scientist. Today, at a time when areas of science and technology may find themselves at odds with segments of society, science centers are positioned to strengthen our role as “civic scientists.” Our place in our society is at the crossroads of the scientific community and the general public. This year, the ASTC conference challenges us to explore our responsibility to both our scientific and public constituencies. What role do we play in reflecting or supporting the views of these communities? How do we mediate the relationship between science and the public?