A Lantern on the Bow (Paperback)

A History of the Science Council of Canada and its Contributions to the Science and Innovation Policy Debate (1966–1992) was at the forefront of a re-assessment of how knowledge can shape society, as it stimulated a dynamic yet critical dialogue about the role of science, technology and innovation in Canada.

It served as a lantern on the bow illuminating themes that still resonate: priority-setting in research; the supply and demand of highly qualified personnel; foresight and science advice to government; the social and economic returns of investments in basic research and big science; natural resource management and sustainability; and, the impact of disruptive technologies and innovation and related issues of risk perception and risk assessment.

As Canada continues to experiment with its science advisory ecosystem, there is much we can learn from the history of this important institution.

This is a highly relevant book for decision makers thirsty for the insights of science broadly defined to help chart and navigate our common future.