This volume gathers a collection of essays by thinkers who insist that scientific research and technological change cannot be understood separately from their sociopolitical contexts. Coming to terms with this reality allows for a much richer understanding of scientific and technological change. It also raises difficult questions about how we are to manage the growth of complexity, ambiguity, and potential for great gain and great harm alike caused by our expanding scientific knowledge and technological prowess. These essays present new perspectives and offer valuable insights into our very human commitment to discovery and creation. The Rightful Place of Science is a book series published by Arizona State University's Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes and edited by G. Pascal Zachary. In accessible, provocative volumes written by subject-area experts, the series explores the complex interactions among science, technology, politics, and society.