Title:
Values, Science, and Institutions: Exploring the Values Served by Standardization
Abstract:
The “values and science” literatureis increasingly exploring the ways that organizations and institutions mediate and promote the influences of values in scientific research.Buildingon this recent focus, this talk explores the value-laden nature of the methodological standards (e.g., rules, norms, guidelines) used to guide research. It highlights how methodological standardization can serve some values (e.g., promoting reproducibility and preventing bias) while detracting from other values (e.g., limiting epistemic diversity and expert judgment). Drawing on regulatory toxicology as a case study, the talk will explore how the disadvantages of methodological standardization can potentially be alleviated by developing well-designed avenues for deviating from standards when appropriate.