Abstract
Tables, graphics and IMAGES – e.g. representations of small but complex macro-molecules in ‘gestalt’ of the Watson-Crick Double Helix or of even more immaterial objects like bits and bytes sliding down a curtain of strings as green drops – play an important role in SCIENCE COMMUNICATION. This applies to processes of communication between sciences and the public as well as to those between or within scientific disciplines. The function of IMAGINARIES as associative complexes is to simultaneously shape and limit our understanding of scientific findings. The idea of gene expression within the relationship of DNA and entire organisms is an example here. Another is that of data mining with regard to the retrieval of information from networks of signal transmission. IMAGINATION, finally, points to some generative activity of creative minds figuring out how to recognize unknown phenomena or such not yet conceived nor determined in distinct structures. Albert Einstein who wrote about a dream in which he was riding on top of a sun beam during the time he was struggling to elaborate his theory of relativity, is an example here. How to detect and observe, analyze and understand the constructive dynamics unfolding within the INTERPLAY of images, imaginaries and imagination in science communication? We invited all kind of papers that can contribute to the challenging task of making progress with regard to the question of that interplay of visual, aesthetic, semantic and epistemic forms and practices. Those relevant to technology assessment, health research, informatics and studies of interdisciplinarity were particularly welcome. In this session of our open panel On the Interplay of Images, Imaginaries and Imagination in Science Communication we will hear 5 paper presentations and will discuss our complex topic with some TRANSDISCIPLINARY FOCUS.