Notion in debate. The scientific community

The notion of scientific community emphasises the transnational and disinterested nature of scientific research, which is focused on cooperation and the common good. However, it obscures power relations and friction. The autonomy of scientists, the spirit of community and the free circulation of knowledge depend on the political context. Although science is globalised, national frameworks still play a key role in shaping research, and the scientific community is in fact a reality that operates on several nested scales.