The following text is about sociology of science.
Robert Merton's "norms of science" described what he argued were the values that make science work: communism (shared ownership of findings), universalism (acceptance regardless of source), disinterestedness (pursuing truth not profit), and organized skepticism (systematic critique). Later studies challenged this idealistic picture, showing that scientists compete for priority, sometimes suppress rivals' work, and are influenced by funding sources. Yet many argue Merton captured aspirational norms that, even if imperfectly realized, distinguish science from other pursuits and provide standards against which violations are judged.
How are Merton's norms of science viewed today according to the text?
As a perfect description of how scientists always behave
As aspirational ideals that provide standards even though practice often falls short
As completely discredited and irrelevant
As applying only to natural sciences
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text notes the "idealistic picture" was challenged, but many argue Merton "captured aspirational norms that, even if imperfectly realized, distinguish science...and provide standards."
- Evidence: Imperfect realization but still aspirational and standard-setting.
- Reasoning: Ideals persist despite practical violations.
- Conclusion: Aspirational norms that frame judgment of violations.
Choice A is incorrect because violations are acknowledged. Choice C is incorrect because the norms remain influential. Choice D is incorrect because no disciplinary limits are mentioned.