Skip to content

Accounts Quote by Thomas Kuhn

“'Normal science' means research firmly based upon one or more past scientific achievements, achievements that some particular scientific community acknowledges for a time as supplying the foundation for its further practice.” quote by Thomas Kuhn
Download Open image
“'Normal science' means research firmly based upon one or more past scientific achievements, achievements that some particular scientific community acknowledges for a time as supplying the foundation for its further practice.”

Thomas Kuhn

About This Quote

Source Book: The Structure of Scientific Revolutions by Thomas Kuhn, 1962

Scientific progress builds on accepted past achievements, forming a foundation for current research within a community.

In simple terms: Science relies on previous accepted work.

Key Takeaway

Build on established knowledge.

Themes

science progress history of science paradigm

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

academic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • grant proposals
  • literature reviews
  • academic coursework
  • collaborative projects

Key Concepts

research methodology epistemology academic tradition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does reliance on past work shape new discoveries?
  • When should we challenge established paradigms?
A Different Perspective

May limit innovative breakthroughs.

3.9 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Thomas Kuhn

Explore all 43 Thomas Kuhn quotes

More Accounts quotes

Browse all 2,677 Accounts quotes