What for art thou, Ph.D.?
Article Abstract:
Working on a dissertaton for a doctor of philosophy degree(PhD) was given three metaphors. It was likened first to the taxi drivers of London, UK who have to gain knowledge of the streets and apartments of London for at least three years but the essence of getting a PhD is more of pursuing knowledge rather than having it. Secondly, it was likened to a bar mitzvah wherein a new language and knowledge is learned as a rite of passage but unfortunately, there are no gifts obtained after a PhD unlike after a bar mitzvah. Finally, getting a PhD is more appropriately compared with rock climbing wherein knowledge, like a rock, is pursued just because it is there for the taking.
Publication Name: Perspectives in Biology and Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0031-5982
Year: 1993
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From epistemology to rational science policy: Popper versus Kuhn
Article Abstract:
Scholars Karl R. Popper and Thomas S. Kuhn developed new frameworks that helped shape practical science policies and contributed to a greater understanding of the power and limitations of science. Popper did not accept induction as a method of arriving at scientific conclusions and rejected the justification of scientific theories and hypotheses. On the other hand, Kuhn advocated the progress of science and accepted some principles of scientific practices, including law, theory, instrumentation and application.
Publication Name: Perspectives in Biology and Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0031-5982
Year: 1998
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A search for the certitude of scientific facts with Giambattista Vico and Karl Popper: the importance of integrative physiology
Article Abstract:
According to Giambattista Vico, fact and creating are interchangeable, that is, we can only know what we create or make. This explains the predicament of scientists when experimental results do not agree, or when their interpretations vary, and it is difficult to be certain with facts. Vico's ideas were analyzed in the light of Karl Popper's solutions to questions regarding certitude of scientific facts. Both agree that human science is powerful, but its limitations ought to be recognized, too.
Publication Name: Perspectives in Biology and Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0031-5982
Year: 1992
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