Sir Peter Gluckman: Science must adapt to a changing world

In a new commentary for Frontiers Policy Labs, Koi Tū Director Sir Peter Gluckman examines how geopolitical tensions, artificial intelligence and the growing influence of the private sector are reshaping how science is produced, governed and used.

Sir Peter argues that growing competition around science and technology is placing pressure on international collaboration, while AI is transforming research, publication and the application of new knowledge.

Science must also confront weaknesses within its own institutions. Publication incentives, exaggerated claims, problems with peer review and poor reproducibility can all undermine trust in the scientific record.

Sir Peter says scientific institutions need stronger governance, greater transparency and broader training for scientists in ethics, communication, policy and working across disciplines.

“Modern science is the nearest we have to a global language,” he writes. Protecting that role will require science to adapt while remaining open, trustworthy and focused on the public good.

Read Modern science: geostrategic, technological, and societal drivers of change on Frontiers Policy Labs.