Lecture Notes: Ethos of Science by Robert Martin

Introduction to Sociology of Science

• The lecture focuses on the social aspect of the scientific community.
• Scientists are human beings influenced by various factors: social, economic, political, ideological, cultural.
• Emphasis on understanding the ethos of science as formulated by Robert Merton.

Who is Robert Merton?

• Renowned American sociologist (1910-2003).
• Pioneer in the sociology of science.
• Harvard PhD; Professor at Columbia University.
• Researched the link between social needs and scientific research in 17th century England.

Defining Science

• Characteristics of Science:
  • A set of characteristic methods for certifying knowledge.
  • A stock of accumulated knowledge from scientific methods.
  • A set of cultural values and morals governing scientific activities.
• Science is viewed as a social institution with binding norms and values.

Ethos of Science

• Defined as a complex of values and norms that guide scientists.
• Norms can be informal rules, culture-specific, or universal.
• Institutionalized and internalized by scientists.

Link Between Political Structure and Science

• Merton contests the idea that only democratic structures promote scientific development.
• Examples of monarchies that supported science: Charles II of England, Louis XIV of France, Frederick I of Germany.
• Official goal of science: extension and diffusion of certified knowledge.

Four Ethos of Science (QDOS)

1. Universalism (U):

   • Science should be judged on merit, not personal attributes of the scientist.
   • Important in the context of racial and national biases in the 1930s and 40s.
   • Free access to scientific endeavors is essential.

2. Communism (C):

   • Implies the communal character of scientific knowledge.
   • Scientific findings belong to the community; they are public knowledge.
   • Intellectual contributions are recognized, but ownership is limited to esteem and respect.

3. Disinterestedness (D):

   • Scientists should act without personal motives; research should be objective and impartial.
   • Integrity of scientific process should be maintained.

4. Organized Skepticism (OS):

   • Scientific claims should be subjected to rigorous scrutiny.
   • Collaboration and cumulative progress in knowledge are emphasized.

Conclusion

• Science is a collaborative enterprise that relies on the contributions of both past and current scientists.
• Emphasis on the importance of sharing findings and recognition of collective progress in the scientific community.