Science Policy under Thatcher

Jon Agar examines the profound impact of Margaret Thatcher’s government on science policy in the UK from 1979 to 1990. Through a detailed analysis, the author explores how her administration's economic strategies and political ideologies shaped the landscape of scientific research and funding. Agar delves into the interplay between politics and science, revealing the tensions and transformations that occurred during this transformative period.

The book highlights the shift towards market-oriented approaches, illustrating how this ideology influenced public attitudes toward scientific endeavor. Agar's insights shed light on the complexities of maintaining scientific integrity in a political environment driven by economic pragmatism, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of a pivotal era in British science policy.