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Science popularization and particle physicists: the social construction of meanings and objectives

Abstract:

In this work the perception of a group of Brazilians and Europeans' particles physicists about the role of their work in scientific popularization in the scientific field is investigated from Pierre Bourdieu's Sociology. The professionals investigated develop outreach activities in European Organization of Nuclear Research (CERN) and the aim of this study is to understand the social dimensions that are negotiated between the agents of this subfield, implicitly and explicitly, in the power game within the scientific field. We considered the dimensions of recognition, disenchantment, disputes, loss and gain in scientific careers, leading these physicists to produce and participate in popularization activities. The aim of this analysis is to discuss the social aspects that influence the actions of these professionals in the producing activities, their scientific careers and the distribution of scientific capital (political and pure), when those researchers work outside recognized laboratories.

Keywords:
Scientific popularization; Scientist; Scientifc field; Particles physicists; Pierre Bourdieu

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