Science and Diplomacy

The Max Planck Society in International Politics (1945-2000)

by Carola Sachse

Book cover: Science and Diplomacy

Extent: 559 pages

Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht

Subjects: Earth & Life Sciences , German Studies, Social Sciences 

Language: English

Hardback (Published)

(March 2025)

ISBN: 9783525302613

6.3 x 9.25 inches

Price: $100.00

In stock

This book explores how the Max Planck Society positioned itself in the field of international politics during the Cold War.


Science diplomacy has recently been seen as a beacon of hope in tackling the global challenges of international politics. And the Max Planck Society sees itself today as an actor in German science diplomacy. This was not always the case. During the Cold War, despite all efforts to keep its extensive scientific relations separate from the political sphere, the MPG was unable to escape realpolitik. This study explores how the MPG positioned itself in this field, both when it cooperated with the foreign policy of the Federal Republic as well as when it distanced itself from it, and how it combined its roles as a national, European and global science policy actor.

  • By (author) Carola Sachse