Lee, Nick and Motzkau, J. (2012) The biosocial event : responding to innovation in the life sciences. Sociology, Vol.46 (No.3). pp. 426-441. doi:10.1177/0038038511422554

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Abstract

Innovation in the life sciences calls for reflection on how sociologies separate and relate life processes and social processes. To this end we introduce the concept of the ‘biosocial event’. Some life processes and social processes have more mutual relevance than others. Some of these relationships are more negotiable than others. We show that levels of relevance and negotiability are not static but can change within existing relationships. Such changes, or biosocial events, lie at the heart of much unplanned biosocial novelty and much deliberate innovation. We illustrate and explore the concept through two examples – meningitis infection and epidemic, and the use of sonic ‘teen deterrents’ in urban settings. We then consider its value in developing sociological practice oriented to critically constructive engagement with innovation in the life sciences.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301 Biology
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Institute of Education ( -2013)
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Life sciences -- Research, Human biology -- Social aspects
Journal or Publication Title:	Sociology
Publisher:	Sage Publications Ltd.
ISSN:	0038-0385
Official Date:	2012
Dates:	Date Event 2012 Published
Volume:	Vol.46
Number:	No.3
Page Range:	pp. 426-441
DOI:	10.1177/0038038511422554
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access

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