The idea that science is value free has been challenged over the years by a number of different sides, including: postmodernists, feminists, radical ecologists, third world advocates and religious fundamentalists.

In this book, Hugh Laceyappraises and

explicates the view that science is value free. Lacey discusses how science and values interact, with a focus on a discussion of development, and sciences place in development particularly in third world countries.

Is Science Value Free? takes a unique approach to this ongoing

discussion in the following ways:

* explores the nature and meaning of values

* discusses challenges to the view that science as value free is possible

* defines levels of scientific inquiry, bringing us closer to the possibility of an impartial ideal

Is Science Value

Free? gives us a refreshing and intriguing new look at how we see and study science. Students of science and philosophy of science will find this to be an invaluable read.

debates with an engagement in more substantive questions about *whose* values may or may not be socially well placed to inform science, and about science's role in international development

(Miranda Fricker, University of London)