It is difficult to exaggerate the importance of science and technology in contemporary culture. The popular media are full of reports on new developments in the bio-medical sciences, in information and communication technologies, and on the role of science and technology in maintaining an economy that will be competitive in world markets. And these are only a few of the most prominent current areas of general interest. This widespread interest generates a need to understand science as a cultural phenomenon. What kind of activity is it? How does it work? How does it interact with other aspects of contemporary culture?