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The Structure of Scientific Revolutions
Kuhn’s article “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions” This book was Kuhn's most influential work. In it, he challenged the prevailing view of scientific progress as a gradual accumulation of knowledge. Instead, Kuhn proposed that science undergoes periodic "paradigm shifts" that fundamentally change how scientists view and investigate the world. -
Introduction of the concept of "paradigm shift"
While this concept was introduced in his 1962 book, it gained widespread recognition in the following years. A paradigm shift occurs when anomalies accumulate that can't be explained by the current scientific framework, leading to a crisis and eventually a new paradigm. This idea revolutionized not just the philosophy of science, but also influenced fields like sociology and business. -
Publication of "The Essential Tension"
In this collection of essays, Kuhn further developed his ideas about scientific progress. He explored the tension between tradition and innovation in science, arguing that both are necessary for scientific advancement. This work helped refine and clarify many of the concepts he introduced in "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions." -
Kuhn receives the George Sarton Medal in the History of Science
This prestigious award recognized Kuhn's significant contributions to the history and philosophy of science. It acknowledged how his work had transformed the field, encouraging scholars to consider the social and historical context of scientific discoveries.