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Reading #1: "The Function of Dogma in Scientific Research."
Due at the beginning of class on Wed, Sept 20
1. In your own words, explain the two essential functions that dogma plays in science, according to Kuhn. Limit your explanation of each function to 2-3 sentences.
2. What do you think is the public's conception of science? (If you think there are many, choose one that you feel is prevalent.) How is it different from Kuhn's conception? Why do you think this difference exists? Limit your answer to 4-6 sentences.
3. (ungraded, 2 pts) What did you think of this article? Did it surprise you? Did it cause you to think about science in a new way? Do you agree with the author's contentions?
How will this assignment be assessed?
Question 3 is for my interest only. A thoughtful, honest answer will earn two points regardless of specific content.
Questions 1 and 2 will be graded and are worth 4 points each. The grading scale is as follows:
Answers should be typed on a word processor, double-spaced, in a clearly legible font. Points will be deducted for answers that do not fall within the length limits specified, and/or which are not concise. (The appropriate solution to a sentence-based length limit is not to construct long and cumbersome sentences.) The definition of "well-articulated" includes, but is not limited to, freedom from errors of grammar or spelling.
Collaboration with colleagues:
You are encouraged to discuss this article and your reactions to it with your fellow students. However, I expect each of you to construct your own answer to each question. If you are unsure what I mean by "in your own words," please refer to the Biology Department's statement on honesty in science.
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Created by:
bkbaxter@lclark.edu
Updated: 14 Sept 00