The Society for the Study of Measurement, though officially founded in 2022, has its roots deeply embedded in a series of influential conferences that brought together researchers from across metrology, philosophy, history, and many other fields. These conferences motivated the formation of our society, which aims to advance our understanding of the foundations of measurement across the sciences.
Prelude to Formation
1. “Dimensions of Measurement” – Bielefeld, 14-16 March 2013: This event marked the beginning of a journey towards a collaborative understanding of measurement. It facilitated an interdisciplinary dialogue that was crucial in shaping future discussions. More details. The conference led to the publication of Reasoning in Measurement (Routledge 2017), edited by Nicola Mößner and Alfred Nordmann, and Standardization in Measurement (Routledge 2015), edited by Oliver Schlaudt and Lara Huber.
2. “The Making of Measurement” – Cambridge, 23-24 July 2015: The second conference in Cambridge explored the conceptual foundations of measurement in various fields ranging from psychometrics to chemistry. More details. The conference led to the special issue The Making of Measurement (Studies in History and Philosophy of Science 65-66, 2017), edited by Daniel Jon Mitchell, Eran Tal, and Hasok Chang.
3. “Measurement at the Crossroads” – Paris, 27-29 June 2018: Held in Paris, this conference extended earlier interdisciplinary discussions and placed a special focus on the then imminent reform of the International System of Units. More details. This conference led to the Special Issue Measurement at the Crossroads (Perspectives on Science 29, 2021), edited by Nadine de Courtenay, Fabien Grégis, Jan Lacki, and Christine Proust.
Formation of the Society
4. “Measurement at the Crossroads 2022” – Milano, 29 June-1 July 2022: The Milano conference was a landmark event where the idea of formally establishing the Society for the Study of Measurement took shape. The discussions and collaborations at this conference laid the groundwork for our society. More details. The conference also led to a special issue in the journal Measurement.
First Official Conference
5. The Society’s inaugural conference, held in Berkeley, California from 5 to 7 August 2024, was a resounding success. The event gathered measurement science experts and enthusiasts from around the world, fostering rich discussions and valuable insights. During the conference, the Society held its first business meeting, where the election of its first official council was announced, marking a significant milestone in the Society’s development.
As we look towards the future, the Society for the Study of Measurement remains committed to its mission of advancing our understanding of measurement methods and concepts across the sciences. We invite scholars and practitioners to join us in this exciting journey.