From coffee houses to conferences - the history of science conversation

In 17th-century London, coffee-houses were important centres of information exchange: gentlemen, merchants, courtiers and craftsmen gathered to sip coffee and talk about the latest news and ideas. Fellows of the newly-established Royal Society used coffee-house conversations to publicise their own research and learn about developments at home and abroad.

Since then, conversations about science have gradually moved out of the public sphere and behind closed doors, to laboratories and scientific conferences. What effect has this had on the relationship between the public and science? Where should the science conversations of the future take place? Presented by a mix of historians and science communicators, this Cafe will explore the way we talk about science.

Speakers:

• Host: Professor Rosemary Ashton OBE FRSL FBA, Quain Professor of English Language and Literature, University College London
• Dr Joe Cain, Department of Science and Technology Studies, UCL
• Mr Keith Moore, Librarian, Royal Society
• Dr Richard P Grant, Business Development Manager, Faculty of 1000

This is one of a series of Cafe Scientifique events held as part of See Further: The Festival of Science + Arts. Cafe Scientifique is a place where, over cup of coffee or a glass of wine, anyone can come to explore science and technology. To join in, just turn up, get a drink and a table, and get involved in the discussion.

Supported by the Kohn Foundation

Listen to the audio report, created by Alison Cooper