Structure of Communications of Science and Society in Iran: Popularizing Science

Dissemination and popularization of science within a society is one of the principle elements influencing the extent of scientific awareness and promoting scientific knowledge in the society. Its significance, in part, is due to its role in promoting public understanding of science and enhancing the scientific point of view within the general public. Therefore, dissemination and promotion of science in the society in general and its popularization in particular, should be considered as part of human resource development in the national development programs. Other aspects of national development and considerations such as technological, industrial and economic development including sustained development (in light of awareness about the side effects of development) are also directly intertwined with the public understanding of science. If we view science as an entity with its own structures and outlook, public understanding of science may be considered as one of the pillars of such structure. This in turn provides an opportunity for all people in the society to develop a correct understanding of a science and the scientific outlook. The success of science education and institutions and programs promoting science, depend strongly on the extent of enhancing public understanding of science and scientific view in the society. In this note we study structure of science and society communication in Iran and propose ways to promote scientific view in the Iranian society.