University Research Centres, Scientific Freedom, and the Jester’s Paradox

Abstract The key norm of good science is research integrity, which includes the freedom to inquire as an independent, self-organising system, and responsibility identify, frame, engage in problems society, a scientific manner. This paper investigates challenges integrity experienced by university centres. Research centres are organised around specific problematic fields society expected have societal impacts. Therefore, they born with paradox being restricted terms yet required meet standards. As example, we analyse Danish Centre for Rural (CLF) which, like many other institutions centres, has become increasingly dependent on various external funding over past decades. In social systems theoretical terms, hybrid organisations that operate simultaneously function science, politics, economy. question whether it possible uphold requisite provide truthful critical knowledge – i.e. necessary autopoiesis operating medium truth at same time be able navigate structures power centre faced with, funding, outside control, expectations expectations. medieval court jester, who was speak unwelcome truths all-mighty king without getting his head cut off, solution this kind paradox. how can handle contemporary sciences, depending funding.