Science and technology touch so many aspects of daily life. In this period of global crisis, which challenges models of production and consumption, it is crucial, therefore, to enrich the democratic fabric of our societies with opportunities for citizens to appropriate relevant knowledge and for scientists to draw closer to citizens' concerns. The issues at stake are complex, public interests are multiple, and science and technology have many dimensions. Truly integrated solutions can emerge from engaging all those concerned in open dialogue and mutual learning to combine different types of knowledge, expertise, and experience that offer complementary insights. In Europe and the United States, innovative forms of engagement between science and civil society involving science centers, museums, universities, and civil society organizations have emerged. They are supported by public policies aimed at sharing science with the public; citizens' panels and consensus meetings for in-depth discussion of societal issues in which the use of science is a key component; and partnerships between universities, research organizations, and civil society organizations leading to co-production of knowledge relevant to civil society concerns. The symposium will discuss how these renewed modes of public engagement reinvigorate participant motivation and enrich outcomes while crossing national, cultural, and economic boundaries.