Agency Theory: Toward a Framework for Research in the Public’s Support for and Understanding of Science

Authors

Peter Muhlberger, University of NebraskaFollow
Lisa M. PytlikZillig, University of NebraskaFollow

Date of this Version

1-1-2016

Citation

Muhlberger, P., & PytlikZillig, L. (2016). Agency theory: Toward a framework for research in the public’s support for and understanding of science. In Godwin, J. (Ed.). Confronting the challenges of public participation: Issues in environmental, planning and health decision-making, 109–36. Science Communication Project. https://doi.org/10.31274/sciencecommunication-180809-10

Comments

Copyright 2016 PETER MUHLBERGER & LISA PYTLIK-ZILLIG

Abstract

Public understanding of science and public engagement around science policy issues takes place within a complex system involving public opinion, values, identities, social groups, media, and social, economic, and political structures and influences. This paper offers a theory of agency that bridges the psychological and sociological and thereby offers a theoretical framework for understanding the system underlying public understanding of science, support for science, and the implications of public engagement. Agency theory integrates elements of well-established social science theories into an understanding of human agency. Strategies for improved public engagement are discussed.