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(1997) The elusive synthesis, Dordrecht, Springer.
Scientists' aesthetic preferences among theories
conservative factors in revolutionary crises
James W. McAllister
pp. 169-187
Scientists choose among alternative available theories in part on empirical considerations, but in part also on aesthetic considerations. That is, their choices to adopt one theory in preference to another are determined partly by the degree to which they regard the theories in question as "beautiful", "elegant", or "aesthetically attractive". This paper is a contribution to the study of the aesthetic considerations to which scientists appeal in theory-choice, and of their role especially in revolutionary times.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1007/978-94-009-1786-6_8
Full citation:
McAllister, J. W. (1997)., Scientists' aesthetic preferences among theories: conservative factors in revolutionary crises, in A. Tauber (ed.), The elusive synthesis, Dordrecht, Springer, pp. 169-187.