5. Coordinating our way out of the poly-crisis

Chapter 5 proposes Peirce-style coordination as a cure for science’s poly-crisis: organizing research around community-supported programs rather than leaving scientists to pursue isolated, short-lived projects. Such coordination involves consensus formation on research priorities, alignment of methods and standards, and shared governance of program goals. Crucially, Peirce-style coordination does not require large consortia or Big Team Science; it can be implemented through flexible structures that preserve diversity and autonomy while promoting coherence. Historical and contemporary examples demonstrate the feasibility of this approach. While concerns about cost, academic freedom, diversity, and conservatism remain, program-level coordination offers a structural alternative to competitive individualism. By enabling cumulative progress rather than fragmented innovation, Peirce-style coordination can help restore science’s credibility and produce knowledge that is both robust and socially responsive.