As in political revolutions, so in paradigm choice--there…
“As in political revolutions, so in paradigm choice--there is no standard higher than the assent of the relevant community. To discover how scientific revolutions are effected, we shall therefore have to examine not only the impact of nature and of logic, but also the techniques of persuasive argumentation effective within the quite special groups that constitute the community of scientists.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Scientific paradigms shift when the majority of scientists accept them, not solely through data or logic but also via persuasive discourse within the community.
In simple terms: Paradigm shifts need community agreement, not just facts.
Key Takeaway
Seek consensus and persuasive communication in scientific debates.
Themes
science
paradigm shifts
community consensus
persuasion
Mood
analytical
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
academic
theoretical
When to use this quote
- research proposals
- policy making
- academic publishing
- grant reviews
Key Concepts
Epistemology
social constructivism
argumentation theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does community bias influence scientific truth?
- What role does rhetoric play in accepting new theories?
A Different Perspective
Consensus may suppress minority insights and delay innovation.