ABSTRACT
There have been few, if any, direct applications of the responsible research and innovation (RRI) conceptual framework to science philanthropies. This chapter addresses this gap, beginning with an overview of how other theoretical constructs have been applied to understand the ways in which science philanthropies function. Then, the chapter identifies the three main dimensions of RRI that will be examined throughout the book: anticipation, deliberation and inclusion, and reflexivity and responsiveness. Next, it links these RRI dimensions with three different kinds of philanthropic interventions: support for individuals, institutions, and networks. Combining these components into a matrix leads to nine different kinds of practices, procedures, and approaches that contemporary science philanthropies undertake that have a component of societal responsibility. These interventions relate both to philanthropic grantmaking and to how foundations themselves operate. For instance, philanthropic efforts interested in supporting individuals while simultaneously advancing an anticipatory perspective often take the form of fellowships directed at supporting early career scholars. In another example, foundations have demonstrated a reflexive disposition by applying to themselves practices that foster responsibility. The chapter concludes by broadening the perspective, commenting on the need for understanding science philanthropies in the context of responsible research.
