The following text is from a philosophy of science article.
Thomas Kuhn's "Structure of Scientific Revolutions" challenged the view of science as cumulative progress. Normal science, Kuhn argued, operates within established paradigms until anomalies accumulate. Revolutionary science then replaces one paradigm with another incommensurable framework. Critics accused Kuhn of relativism, though he insisted paradigm shifts could represent genuine progress.
Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?
It summarizes a theory and notes a criticism and response.
It provides a biography of Thomas Kuhn.
It compares Kuhn's ideas with those of contemporary philosophers.
It argues that scientific progress is impossible.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The text summarizes Kuhn's theory (paradigm shifts), notes criticism (relativism), and Kuhn's response (genuine progress possible).
- Evidence: The text summarizes the theory: "Normal science... until anomalies accumulate... Revolutionary science then replaces." It notes criticism: "Critics accused Kuhn of relativism." It notes response: "he insisted paradigm shifts could represent genuine progress."
- Reasoning: The structure presents an intellectual history: Idea -> Attack -> Defense.
- Conclusion: This matches "summarizes a theory and notes a criticism and response."
💡 Strategy: Identify the three moves: The Theory (Kuhn) -> The Criticism (Relativism) -> The Response (Progress).
Choice B is incorrect because biography isn't provided. Choice C is incorrect because other philosophers aren't compared. Choice D is incorrect because Kuhn defended progress.