Abstract

During the interview with Trevor J. Pinch three different issues are carefully discussed. Firstly, the beginning of Pinch's career in "science & technology studies" (S&TS) in the seventies is reconstructed, bringing to light the development of this field, the affirmation of the sociology of scientific knowledge (SSK) and the origin of the social construction of technology approach (SCOT). Furthermore, the dialogue focuses on similarities and differences between the S&TS approach, cultural sociology and cultural studies, with particular reference to the work of Bruno Latour, Donna Haraway, Pierre Bourdieu, Anthony Giddens, Paul DiMag¬gio and Howard Becker, in so doing stressing the key role of material culture in S&TS approach. Finally, Pinch describes the development of sound studies, a recently born field that focuses on the relation between music, culture and technology. The interview ends with a remark concerning the role of political engagement in the S&TS field.