Philosopher of science Dr. Laura Kim argues that scientific paradigm shifts are not purely rational progressions but involve sociological factors like generational turnover and institutional power.
Which historical analysis would best support Kim's sociology-of-science claim?
Analysis of 12 major paradigm shifts found new theories gained acceptance not when evidence convinced skeptics, but when younger scientists trained in new frameworks replaced retiring opponents—with acceptance rates correlating to generational turnover rather than evidence quality
Science has progressed historically
Scientists sometimes disagree
Experiments can be replicated
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. Generational correlation rather than evidence correlation proves sociological factors dominate.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Challenging purely rational models needs evidence of non-rational correlates.