Question

Thomas Kuhn, a great historian of science, said that "big ideas" in science are not discovered at fixed moments in history, but are discovered over extended periods of time by multiple scientists. We often hear it said that William Harvey "discovered the circulation of the blood." Kuhn would say that this is not true. He would say that when we speak of today's meaning of the "circulation of the blood," the concept of "circulation" required centuries to be discovered. Pretend you are Kuhn, and argue for his points of view. Then, speaking for yourself, explain why you agree or disagree with Kuhn.

Short answer

An argument based on Kuhn's perspective could focus on the idea that scientific discoveries are gradual and iterative processes. They build upon the contributions of several scientists across time, rather than being sudden, independent discoveries. Regarding the personal perspective, it would depend on the individual's understanding and agreement or disagreement with Kuhn's viewpoint.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Kuhn's Perspective

Immerse yourself in Thomas Kuhn's perspective on scientific discovery. Go through his theories and statements, focus specifically on the idea that big scientific ideas are not discovered suddenly but instead are found gradually over time by multiple scientists. Understand that Kuhn argues that when we speak of concepts like 'circulation of blood', it took centuries for the concept to reach its current understanding.

Presented Argument From Kuhn's Perspective

Formulate an argument from Kuhn’s perspective. Make sure to emphasise how scientific discoveries are gradual processes that build upon ideas of multiple scientists across different times. Use the example of the discovery of the circulation of blood to support your argument, stating that the concept evolved over centuries.

Formulate Your Personal Perspective

Reflect on Kuhn's perspective and decide whether you agree or disagree with his viewpoint. There is no right or wrong answer, the important part is to provide reasonable points and arguments to support your stance. Explain in a thoughtful manner why do you agree or disagree, providing concrete examples, if possible.

Key concepts

Thomas Kuhn's Scientific Theory

Thomas Kuhn revolutionized the way we understand scientific progress with his influential theory presented in 'The Structure of Scientific Revolutions'. His concept of 'paradigm shifts' describes the pattern of scientific progress not as a steady, cumulative acquisition of knowledge, but as a series of revolutionary changes where an existing framework or paradigm is replaced by a new one.

According to Kuhn, science does not simply evolve by the process of adding new discoveries to a pile of existing knowledge. Instead, he argues that anomalies and discrepancies within the current scientific paradigm lead researchers to question the prevailing norms and eventually inspire a new framework that is radically different and more accommodating of the observed facts.

This theory helps explain why major discoveries like the circulation of blood are not attributed to a single moment or person but are recognized as part of a wider and longer process of scientific evolution.

Circulation of Blood Discovery

The discovery of blood circulation is a prime example of the gradual nature of scientific discovery. While William Harvey is credited with the detailed and documented description of the circulatory system in 1628, his conclusion was built upon the work of predecessors like Ibn al-Nafis, who described the pulmonary circulation in the 13th century, and Michael Servetus, who made similar observations in the 16th century.

Kuhn would argue that Harvey's 'discovery' was not an isolated breakthrough but rather a significant point in a continuum of knowledge that spanned centuries. Observations, experiments, and theories from numerous scientists contributed to the evolution of this concept, demonstrating that scientific discovery is a complex and collective endeavor.

Evolution of Scientific Concepts

Scientific concepts typically evolve over time as new evidence emerges and current explanations are tested and often disproven. Innovations in technology and methodology allow scientists to observe phenomena more accurately, leading to refined or entirely new concepts.

The notion that Earth-centered (geocentric) model of the universe, proposed by Ptolemy, gave way to Copernicus' heliocentric model is one among many instances depicting this evolution. This change did not happen overnight but was the result of gradual accumulation and analysis of observational data that increasingly supported a sun-centered system. The evolution of scientific concepts thus involves a dynamic process of hypothesis, testing, and revision.

Historiography of Science

Historiography of science refers to the study of how scientific knowledge is recorded and interpreted through history. It explores the historical development of scientific concepts, the lives of scientists, and the impact of social, cultural, and political contexts on scientific advancement.

The historiography of science is fundamental to understanding Thomas Kuhn's perspective, as historical analysis reveals patterns of change and continuity in science. It helps in recognizing that breakthroughs often credited to a 'eureka' moment are actually the culmination of work by many individuals and are influenced by the prevailing scientific and cultural environment of the time.