Question

Merton argued that seeking recognition as the first person to come up with an idea, or to show an experimental finding, is an important part of science. This, he said, is reflected in the frequency and intensity of priority disputes – disagreements over who should get credit of this kind.

In about 200 words, describe a scientific priority dispute, other than the ones included in Theory and Reality. How did it arise and how was it resolved?

Answer 1

Scientific Priority Dispute provides valuable information about a scientific discovery. It also provides various important insights. Priority disputes may lead to a proper discussion about facts and figures. Intense discussion on same topic with more than one perspectives helps in better understanding of topic.

Such a dispute took place between Richard Owen and Charles Darwin. Both were related to the field of Biology. Darwin claimed that natural selection theory was his own creation. On the other hand, Owen started making criticism against Darwin.

He talked to supporters of Darwin and also inspired them to have a hostile attitude for the publication of Darwin's natural selection theory. He also claimed that Darwin's theory was his own theory. Later on, various discussions took place and they understood the fact that the whole matter was based on confusion.

They were apart on their thought process just because of scientific disagreements. Various misunderstandings had taken place between these two scientists. Darwin ended this rivalry from his own side and mentioned it in the year 1872 in a new version of book named as "Historical Sketch".