Sociology of Science

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

• An approach by Thomas Kuhn
• Use of paradigms

Question 2

Paradigm

Answer 2

Constellations of assumptions or auxiliary hypotheses
- Specified to each paradigm
- Methods
- How to conduct science
Qualitative vs Quantitative paradigm

Question 3

The Kuhn Cycle

Answer 3

The process for science
-Pre-Science
- Normal-Science
Not questioning of theories or methods
- Model drift
Results that doesnt fit in the current paradigm, keeps coming back
- Model Crisis
- Paradigm Revolution

Question 4

What is science?

Answer 4

Relative
- paradigms are incommensurable
All science isnt the same
Cant compare theories between paradigms
Different assumptions
No neutral point between paradigms, words gets new meaning

Question 5

Criticism to paradigms

Answer 5

• As a term, its too broad and vague
  Its confusing
• Too generalised
  A very simplistic view of science
• The description of the process
  Is normal science good? Shouldnt we be critical?

Question 6

Imre Lakatos

Answer 6

• Built upon Kuhns idea
• Paradigms are research programmes, different disciplines and not science as a whole
• Disciplines can be progressive or degenerating
• Unclear of when a research programme should be rejected

Question 7

Theoretical Hard core

Answer 7

• Theoretical tenets that are not being challenged

Question 8

Protective Belt

Answer 8

• Auxiliary hypotheses
  Tested, adjusted and changed