POIESIS Recommendations 4, 5, 6: Societal Integration and Public Engagement in Science

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What is this about?

This set of recommendations (3 out of 9 POIESIS recommendations) focuses on strengthening the connection between science and society through active inclusion of citizens and stakeholders in the research process. It advocates for participatory and co-creative approaches that allow public concerns, local knowledge, and social values to inform research design, implementation, and dissemination. The aim is to move beyond viewing the public merely as recipients of scientific results and instead treat them as partners in shaping research agendas. POIESIS emphasizes that engagement should be genuine, continuous, and mutually beneficial not a token exercise. When citizens and communities are involved from the start, scientific outcomes become more relevant, legitimate, and socially responsive. This approach also helps researchers better understand diverse perspectives and address potential ethical, environmental, or social impacts early in the process. Strengthening societal integration promotes inclusivity, builds mutual understanding, and ensures that science serves collective well-being. By fostering open dialogue, this recommendation contributes to bridging the gap between scientific institutions and the wider public, ultimately enhancing societal trust in science.

Why is this important?

This recommendation is crucial because public engagement enhances the social relevance, transparency, and legitimacy of science. When citizens and communities participate meaningfully in the research process, they feel ownership over its outcomes and are more likely to trust and support scientific initiatives. Inclusive and co-created research bridges the gap between expert knowledge and everyday experience, ensuring that research addresses real societal needs. It also helps counter misinformation and skepticism by fostering dialogue and shared understanding. By embedding public engagement within research design, science becomes more democratic, reflexive, and accountable to the people it serves. This approach ultimately strengthens mutual trust and ensures that innovation contributes to social well-being and sustainability.

For whom is this important?

Civil society organizations and citizen groupsPolicymakers designing science and innovation programsResearch Institutions and UniversitiesResearchers and project leaders conducting participatory research

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