The importance of the autonomy of science is generally assumed to be
good for the proper functioning of science. Yet, when we examine the
notion more closely, various difficulties present themselves and cloud
our understanding of this important concept. One such complication
presents itself when we examine the relationship between science and
the state. When examining the relationship between science and the
state, there is an area of overlap that is called by Alvin Weinberg as
trans-science. This concept contains within it an axiology of science that
has bearing upon the scientific process itself. This leads us to ask, who
determines the values in this axiology of science? In this paper I will
argue that the state takes precedence in determining these values in the
axiology of science which impacts science’s autonomy. To do this, I will
first present an outline of what the concept of trans-science is. Next I
will present the axiology of science and ways of determining it. Finally I
will present the State’s role in determining these values.