4S Across Borders: An STS Timeline

This exhibit presents an institutional history of the Society for Social Studies of Science (4S).  Founded in 1975, the evolution of 4S has been an important index of the development of the interdisciplinary research field of Science and Technology Studies (STS). At times in harmony and at times in discord, 4S has developed alongside departmental, regional, and programmatic efforts to synthesize social research on science and technology. Meanwhile, global events have also regularly shaped 4S priorities through demands on resources and attention in ways that have reconfigured STS across borders. This exhibit visualizes various currents that have produced the scholarly character of 4S over the years as a juxtaposition of multiple timelines that document various 4S initiatives: including, for example, annual conferences, journals and handbooks, governance mechanisms, presidents and council members, and recognition of scholarship, mentoring, and service through the institution of various prizes. In recognition of his contributions to 4S and to STS writ large, the exhibit will also feature a special timeline on the 2018 winner of the Bernal Prize, Trevor Pinch.