TABOO - TRANSGRESSION - TRANSCENDENCE

The Distributed Narratives of Science: The Expanse of Possible, Historical, and Future Modes of Publication

This talk will explore two key themes: the plurality of means by which science is published and shared, and the role of creative and cultural projects in shaping, critiquing, and contextualizing scientific narratives. Drawing on scientific and artistic research, we will investigate how the processes of disseminating scientific knowledge have expanded beyond traditional publication routes and how artistic and cultural works influence the conversation.

Part 1: The Plurality of Science Publication

The first section will examine the diverse methods of scientific publication, challenging the reductive frameworks that emphasize citation counts and impact factors. Zepka’s exploration of alternative communication platforms highlights the growing importance of workshops, community spaces, social platforms and open cultural contexts in reshaping scientific discourse. These platforms enable more inclusive, interdisciplinary, and real-time engagement with research, offering scientists and the public a broader spectrum of dissemination options.

Part 2: Creative and Cultural Narratives

The second part will delve into how creative and cultural projects—such as literature, art, and film—engage with science to communicate, critique, and contextualize it. Zepka’s work underscores the role of speculative fiction, satire and other narrative forms in critiquing scientific progress, envisioning future possibilities, and reflecting on the societal implications of new technologies. In addition they offer science fictional worlds to imagine,transcend or transgress current paradigmatic discourse. These cultural narratives help expand the conversation around science, offering perspectives that pure scientific reporting cannot always capture.

By integrating insights from both scientific publication and creative critique, this talk will highlight the evolving, multi-dimensional ways science is communicated today and the importance of inclusive, creative storytelling in shaping future scientific discourses.