"Asian Science", as understood by Western-trained, Asian-born Scientists

• In Event: The Making of Asian Science: Comparative and Historical Perspectives

Abstract

The production of knowledge is contingent upon the context in which the research is carried out. As science, and particularly bioscience research, becomes increasingly complex and team-based, the systems in which knowledge is produced impinge upon the research work itself, affecting the kinds of research questions that are pursued and the approach taken. This paper explores the idea of an Asian approach to scientific research, recognising the unique role played by Asian developmental states, and cultural and structural differences in the relative priorities given to basic vis-à-vis applied research, reporting and funding structures, the degree of transparency in decision-making, and the recognition of women as scientists. The different subjective understandings of "western science" versus "Asian science" are investigated through analysis of in-depth interviews with Western-trained, Asian-born bioscientists in China, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and the United States. These scientists have experience in both Western and Asian contexts are thus in a unique position to delineate differences in the conduct of scientific research and research cultures in both contexts

Author

• Anju Mary Paul, Yale-NUS College