USC Annenberg's School of Journalism director Geneva Overholser (pictured) has co-edited a new volume from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences titled Science and the Media, which examines the dynamic between scientists and journalists.

The series of essays by scientists, journalists and public relations specialists point to the need for these kinds of professionals to become partners in promoting scientific literacy. The volume examines the sometimes conflicting cultures of journalists, who value speed and clarity, and scientists, whose work requires more nuance and embraces “evolving states of knowledge,” according to the Academy’s description of the work.

The study was led by Overholser and by Donald Kennedy, President Emeritus of Stanford University and former editor-in-chief of Science Magazine.

A free copy of the volume may be downloaded here.

Marking its 230th year as an independent policy research center, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences conducts multidisciplinary studies of complex and emerging problems. Current Academy research focuses on science and technology policy; global security; social policy; the humanities and culture; and education. With headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Academy’s work is advanced by its 4,600 elected members, who are leaders in the academic disciplines, the arts, business and public affairs from around the world.