Theory Change in Science: Strategies from Mendelian Genetics
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Author Description
This challenging and innovative book examines the processes involved in the birth and development of new scientific ideas. The author has searched for strategies used by scientists for producing new theories, both those that yield a range of plausible hypotheses and ones that aid in narrowing that range. She goes on to focus on the development of the theory of the gene as a case study in scientific creativity. Her discussion of modern genetics greatly demystifies the philosophy of science, and establishes a realistic framework for understanding how scientists actually go about their work. This compelling work will interest a broad range of readers, including biologists and geneticists, along with historians and philosophers of science.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
How do scientists generate and refine new theories within the complex landscape of biological discovery? Lindley Darden, a philosopher of science, investigates the cognitive and methodological strategies employed by researchers to produce plausible hypotheses. By analyzing the historical development of Mendelian genetics, she constructs a framework that bridges the gap between abstract philosophical inquiry and the practical, creative labor of working scientists.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A detailed historical analysis of the emergence and refinement of the gene theory.
- Methodological strategies for hypothesis generation and theory evaluation.
- Case studies focusing on the transition from Mendelian principles to modern genetic frameworks.
- An examination of the cognitive processes that allow scientists to narrow down plausible theoretical models.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts recognize this monograph as a foundational text for understanding the intersection of historical case studies and philosophical theory construction. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a rigorous guide for those interested in the mechanics of scientific creativity.
Page Count:
328
Publication Date:
1991-09-12
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0195067975
ISBN-13:
9780195067972
Science
Biology
Genetics
Science
Human Genetics
