The Rathenau Instituut is a knowledge institute that supports the formation of public and political opinion on socially relevant aspects of science and technology. It conducts research on this subject and organises debates on science, innovation, and new technology. We are part of the The Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Science (KNAW). Today the institute employs around 50 people. It is based in The Hague, The Netherlands.
The Rathenau Instituut works on the basis of an institutional decision by the government. Every two years we determine which issues require attention. We do this after input from the public and from experts in our programme panel and board. The institute is unique in combining expertise in broad areas of research with an understanding of how science is actually practiced and how science, technology and innovation are embedded in society. That means that it is adept at analysing and managing the many different factors involved in an issue.
In 2019-2020, we hope to fuel 4 debates:
- Digital society: shaping our own digital future
- Making perfect lives: examining new care options
- Knowledge for democracy: expert and public input into decision-making
- Knowledge ecosystems: the knowledge society of the future
Within RECIPES Rathenau Instituut contributes to WP1-4.