Public Underaand. Sci. 3 (1994)425-434. Printed in the UK ‘Science journalism ’ without science journalists: notes on a Norwegian media paradox

Rune Ottosen This article discusses recent developments of the relationship between scientists and journalists in Norway, a counlry without a tradition of science journalism. A general professional upgrading among journalists is now accompanied by a growing interest in science coverage. Paradoxically. this coverage is already extensive, though as yet not of high quality. For a proper understanding of the trddilions as well as new tendencies within science coverage, we discuss cultures and traditions-within academic as well as in the media-and specific swio-historical contexts. The discussion is based on surveys among scientists interviewed on TV and in newspapen, and on a content analysis of the coverage of social science in Norwegian dailies