Citizen Social Science in Germany—cooperation beyond invited and uninvited participation

This article explores Citizen Social Science (CSS) in Germany, defining it as scientific research in the humanities and social sciences, conducted collaboratively by professional and non-professional researchers. Using an online survey and semi-structured interviews, the study examines the diversity of participatory research activities, analyzing participation and cooperation patterns in projects initiated within and outside academic institutions. The findings reveal that CSS often involves heterogeneous consortia influencing researcher interactions, extending beyond individual volunteer participation to encompass various forms of cooperation. The study highlights the roles of civil society organizations, municipalities, schools, and university students, emphasizing the importance of science communication, project management, and intermediation activities. The authors introduce the concept of 'cooperation capacity' as a heuristic device to enhance understanding and support of CSS, shifting the focus from participation to cooperation.

Claudia Göbel, Sylvi Mauermeister, Justus Henke