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The article presents a sociological framework for the analysis of the transparency syndrome in global as well as local change. For instance, transparency is the expectations for centers of power to disclose information about themselves and their actions to citizens, clients or customers. Such disclosure is radically new and contested in many cultures. It can trigger changes of institutional practices and relationships. And transparency is a global phenomenon of the information technology era. It is also a local phenomenon affecting local politics, business practices, or environmental risks.

Presents a review of how social science might best address the emerging rapid global restructuring to design new institutions, be responsive to democratic needs and create viable and sustainable economies. Sketches of framework of social science; General conclusions for global structural change; General requirements for a conceptual social science framework.

In recent years, a number of important science policy issues have centered on questions about the social utility of science. While investments in the physical, biological, and social sciences continue to be viewed as a contribution to the growth of knowledge, per se, there is obvious growing concern that science policymakers and the public at large lack sufficient information to assess the social and economic impacts of science. In the absence of such information, policymakers cannot be expected to make decisions that yield advances in science. One response to this informational deficit is the development of the field of science indicators. Another response is the attempt to develop "knowledge systems accounting," a field that seeks to make estimates of the effects of science on society.