The Role of Astronomy in Society and Culture (IAU S260)

IAU S260 examines the role of astronomy in the modern world and its links to culture and society. This book brings together experts and practitioners from a broad range of fields to address questions relevant to astronomy's potential contributions to education, development, culture and the arts.

Astronomy has made enormous progress over the past decades and engages public and media interest as never before. IAU Symposium 260, held at the start of the IAU-UNESCO International Year of Astronomy 2009, addresses questions relevant to the role of astronomy in the modern world and its links to culture and society. The current volume brings together a wide range of experts and practitioners to share plans and experiences and to discuss ways in which astronomy might contribute to education, development, culture and the arts. Topics covered include: the historical framework; the social impact of astronomy; astronomy, the media and society; astronomy and the arts; public understanding of astronomy; the activities of amateur astronomers; and astronomy in the information age. This book is of value to practising scientists with an interest in the wider cultural aspects of their research, scientific policy makers and the general public.