Thomas Kuhn's Theory of Scientific Revolutions Persuasive Essay by Nicky

A discussion that supports Thomas Kuhn's theory of scientific revolutions.
# 149928 | 2,450 words | 6 sources | MLA | 2011 | US
Published on Jan 12, 2012 in Biology (Genetics) , Philosophy (General)


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Description:

This paper argues that Kuhn's theory of scientific revolutions is valid and that it explains recent developments in the fields of genetics and bioengineering. The paper outlines the basic tenets of the theory and his process of change and also considers the criticisms of his work. The paper shows how science is an ever-changing area where old ideas are continually being replaced by new ones, and Kuhn's theory provides a map that can be used to follow these changes.

Outline:
Basic Tenets of the Theory
The Process of Change
Kuhn and the Field of Genetics and Bioengineering

From the Paper:

"Kuhn's process is believed to repeat itself every time a new area of scientific discovery is pursued. Kuhn argues that one cannot see the stages taking place until after the new paradigm is established. However, it one takes a look at a rapidly changing field of modern science, one can see these phases in action. The following will explore Kuhn's process of change as it relates to the field of genetics and bioengineering.
"Bioengineering is the process of changing an organism's DNA so that it has desirable traits. It is also conducted to attempt to eliminate undesirable characteristics. The field of bioengineering is actually an old idea. However, recent developments have changed the way people think about the field. Let us examination this evolution of this scientific revolution.
"Bioengineering has been practiced since ancient times. The first bioengineers accomplished their goals through the selective breeding of livestock and plants. When a genetic mutation occurred, they could decide to propagate the mutation or to allow it to extinguish through failing to propagate it. This process mimics nature, only humans have a hand in making an active decision about whether the new mutation survives or are allowed to become extinct. The goal of selective breeding is to improve the species to make it more suitable to human needs."

Sample of Sources Used:

  • Fredholm, L. The Discovery of the Molecular Structure of DNA - The Double Helix. 2003. Nobelprize.org. < http://nobelprize.org/educational_games/medicine/dna_double_helix/readmore.html > Accessed July 3, 2009.
  • Horgan, J. "Profile: Reluctant Revolutionary: Thomas S. Kuhn Unleashed 'Paradigm' on the World," Scientific American, May 1991 pp. 40-49. <http://cseweb.ucsd.edu/~goguen/courses/275f00/horgan.html> Accessed July 3, 2009.
  • Kuhn. T. Black-Body Theory and the Quantum Discontinuity 1894- 1912 (Oxford University Press, 1978).
  • Kuhn, T. The structure of scientific revolutions. (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 1962).
  • Mitra, A. "Thomas Kuhn's Structure of Scientific Revolutions: A Critique". 1994, Reformatted June 2003. < http://horizons- 2000.org/2.%20Ideas%20and%20Meaning/Topics/critique%20of%20Kuhn%27s%20arg ument.html >.

Cite this Persuasive Essay:

APA Format

Thomas Kuhn's Theory of Scientific Revolutions (2012, January 12) Retrieved June 07, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/persuasive-essay/thomas-kuhn-theory-of-scientific-revolutions-149928/

MLA Format

"Thomas Kuhn's Theory of Scientific Revolutions" 12 January 2012. Web. 07 June. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/persuasive-essay/thomas-kuhn-theory-of-scientific-revolutions-149928/>

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