David Castle
Canada Research Chair in Science and Society, University of Ottawa, Canada
With a Ph.D. in the philosophy of science, David Castle is Canada Research Chair in Science and Society at the University of Ottawa where he is the Director of the Institute for Science, Society and Policy. His research addresses the interaction between science and technology innovation and society, particularly the ethical and legal issues posed by new biotechnology. He has written widely on genetically modified food, aquaculture and innovation, and on the way knowledge is used in science and industry.
Profile
“I am interested in the extent to which formal legal protection is often not the main issue – knowledge management, as a more encompassing activity, is the most important.”
David is one of Canada’s leading researchers and, like many TIP members, draws on a multi-disciplinary background to contribute to debates about innovation. His background in law and philosophy provide structure and depth to his research on how science affects the overall well-being of society. David’s research also has a very practical streak, addressing how knowledge is used in fields like biotechnology and aquaculture.
What is the biggest challenge facing innovation at the moment?
“People still refer to innovations as things – "units" – when innovation is a process. This is the hardest issue to get people thinking about properly.”
What is one of the most influential books or articles you have read about innovation?
“I would recommend a book by Caroline Wagner called ‘The New Invisible College’. It describes how the shift from institutions to global networks offers new opportunities for developing countries to tap the potential of science.”
Where do you see the future of innovation?
“Korea, Korea, Korea.”