The book is a collection of essays that discuss various dimensions of the nature and knowledge of science. Bringing attention to the important yet often ignored aspect of interface of science with society and with commerce. The author argues against market drive progress in new knowledge in science that benefits only the privileged capitalists, further marginalizing the excluded.
Progress in scientific knowledge was earlier through scientific societies funded by patronage of the aristocrats. In the early twentieth century, knowledge generation in science began to be confined to the structure of educational institutions and the universities. With greater state funding and autonomy of university research institutions over knowledge generation, patents and other intellectual property rights became a source of funds.