Assumption Quote by John Naughton
“A paradigm is a powerful theoretical and methodological framework which defines the working lives of thousands of intelligent and disciplined minds. And paradigms do not attract the loyalty of such minds unless they 'work'. One of the first things a graduate student learns is that if there is a discrepancy between the paradigm and what he or she has discovered, then the automatic assumption is that the paradigm is right and the student wrong. Just as a good workman never blames his tools, so the diligent student never blames his paradigm”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Role of Paradigms in Research, 2015
Paradigms guide research but can become dogma; students must critically assess when they conflict with evidence.
In simple terms: Question paradigms when evidence contradicts them.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions, adapt methods.
Themes
research methodology
critical thinking
paradigm shift
education
Mood
analytical
thought‑provoking
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research design
- graduate seminars
- peer review
- lab meetings
Key Concepts
scientific method
student mentorship
academic culture
innovation
Questions to Reflect On
- When should a paradigm be abandoned?
- How to foster flexibility in scholarly work?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence can stifle discovery.
