Può la scienza post-normale applicarsi all’oncologia radioterapica? Le incertezze della scienza nelle conoscenze disciplinari.

Post-Normal Science (PNS) was introduced about 30 years ago to address the changing relation between science and governance when science is called upon to provide inputs to policy-related issued. Originally concerned mainly with environmental risks, in the last decades the PNS approach has been applied to a growing and diversified number of issues. It is considered particularly appropriate in situations characterized by: uncertain facts, a plurality of potentially conflicting values, high stakes, and urgent decisions. The objective of this paper is to present a survey that will test the opinions of practitioners and stakeholders on the usefulness of the PNS approach for addressing three emerging issues within the field of radiation oncology: the high and growing number of expected patients, the number of sessions per radiotherapy cycle, and treatment in old age. Respondents will also be asked to indicate which of the typical PNS intervention tools - such as extended and inclusive dialogue, the use of hybrid tools, adaptability and flexibility, and transparency in decision-making -are most suitable, and to what extent. Professionals and stakeholders from one radiotherapy center in northern Italy and two centers in southern Italy will be interviewed.