Tired of Experts

There is increasing tension in the public sphere about the role of experts in the social system. Experts are involved in educating the audience and revealing the relevance of current research agendas and their implications. Some people feel that their understanding of reality is underrepresented in what is being studied and discussed by experts. Moreover, they feel pressured into surrendering to truths they don’t entirely understand or relate to. Given that a vocal and significant part of society is tired of experts, of being preached to, and of being patronized under the aegis of scientific truth, the question is begged: What should the relationship between the public and experts be?

Debaters
Maarten Derksen (Assistant Professor Psychology)
Marcela Fratescu (BCN Research Master)
Alin Rotaru-Segall (Psychology BSc)

vs.

Lucy Avraamidou (Associate Professor FSE)
Rebeka Béres (MSc Energy and Environmental Sciences)
Márton Iritz (MSc FSE)

Mindwise Debate
This debate series is organized in collaboration with Mindwise. With this debate series we aspire to build a platform that will facilitate discussions on relevant topics, encouraging risky and informed dialogue, and creating a sense of community that will transcend disciplinary and structural boundaries. In the first part of the debate, the two teams will bring arguments for and against the proposal and challenge each other’s position; in the second part of the debate, audience members are invited to participate in the discussion to further explore the topic and contribute their ideas.