ASSESSMENT OF THE IMAGE OF A SCIENTIST IN KAZAKHSTAN: RESULTS OF THE PILOT PHASE OF THE STUDY

Abstract

This article presents the results of an empirical study on the assessment of the image of a scientist in Kazakh society. Based on an interdisciplinary approach and the theory of constructs, the authors have developed a methodology for assessing the image of a scientist. This technique was developed on the basis of the theory of personal constructs by J. Kelly, which allows you to evaluate the image of a scientist as a complex phenomenon. Based on the structural approach, the phenomenon of the scientist's image was decomposed into 5 constructs: cognitive, emotional-affective, moral, social information and communication constructs. The constructs that make up the image of a scientist can rarely be observed directly due to their abstractness, lack of clarity and accuracy.

The analysis of the phenomenon under study also allowed us to identify four cultural factors affecting the relationship between science and society and showing the urgent need for scientists to transfer their knowledge and strengthen ties between the public and scientists: a crisis of trust and respect for science and scientists on the part of society; changes in the nature of knowledge production; an increase in the number of information sources and related improved communication; democratic deficit.

The results indicate fairly average indicators for assessing the image of a scientist in Kazakhstan through the eyes of society, which indicates the existence of a crisis of confidence in scientists in Kazakhstan.  The authors of the article raise questions about the need to popularize scientific knowledge, developments and discoveries with modern technological means of communication, which will help overcome the crisis of trust in science and establish a dialogue with society.

This research is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (IRN project AP19676455).