Famous quote by Thomas Kuhn

"Crisis alone is not enough. There must also be a basis, though it need be neither rational nor ultimately correct, for faith in the particular candidate chosen"

About this Quote

Thomas Kuhn's quote delves into the complex dynamics of scientific transformations and paradigm shifts, ideas he thoroughly checked out in his critical work, "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions". While at first look the quote might appear focused on crises in basic terms, within the context of Kuhn's work it refers particularly to crises in clinical paradigms-- when an existing framework of understanding can no longer adequately describe phenomena, leading the clinical community to question its credibility and search for a new design.

Kuhn recommends that simply experiencing a crisis isn't sufficient to propel a paradigm shift. While a crisis may highlight abnormalities and inconsistencies within the current paradigm, such discontentment does not automatically lead to the adoption of a new one. For a scientific revolution to take place, there also needs to be a foundation upon which the scientific neighborhood can position their trust, even if that foundation is not fully logical or correct by supreme requirements. This requirement for a basis represents the subjective aspect in scientific progress, where factors beyond empirical proof-- such as instinct, visual appeal, or the convincing power of a brand-new theory's proponent-- can affect the neighborhood's approval of a new paradigm.

Kuhn's insight shows his broader thesis that scientific progress is not a straightforward trajectory towards reality however is subject to human components like belief and persuasion. Interesting scientists, a new theory must provide a compelling narrative or vision that resonates, even if parts of it are speculative or unverified. History shows that moments of significant clinical modification typically involve a leap of faith-- a dedication to the potential of a brand-new theory in spite of its nascent imperfections or unanswered questions.

Thus, Kuhn's quote highlights the interaction between empirical proof and subjective aspects like belief and persuasion in shaping clinical paradigms. It underscores the idea that clinical revolutions are as much about sociology and human psychology as they have to do with information and logic, advising us of the nuanced complexity in how clinical understanding develops.

About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by Thomas Kuhn between July 18, 1922 and June 17, 1996. He/she was a famous Writer from USA. The author also have 6 other quotes.
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