Psychology of the scientist: LXXVIII. Relevance of a scientist's ideology in communal recognition of scientific merit

Journal/Book: Psychol Rep. 1998; 83: P O Box 9229, Missoula, MT 59807, USA. Psychological Reports. 1123-1144.

Abstract: A scientist's work product can usually be rationally appraised apart from ideology. ''Bad science'' includes formal and material fallacies and poor data; nonoptimal judgment calls and theorizing refuted by later knowledge do not count. In bestowing encomiums, a scientific organization with multiple goals map consider-with caution and wide tolerance-social impact where ideological applications abhorrent to most members or unethical conduct qua scientist become relevant. Members valuing only scientific merit may either effect policy change within the organization or join another. A scientist who extrapolates scientific theory to make social policy judgments should emphasize the limitations of technical expertise in these matters.

Note: Article Meehl PE, Univ Minnesota, Dept Psychol, 75 E River Rd, N218 Elliott Hall, Minneapolis,MN 55455 USA

Keyword(s): PHILOSOPHY; HISTORY; SCIENCE

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