Is Scientific Progress Linear or Exponential?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature of scientific progress, specifically whether it follows a linear or exponential model. Participants explore historical perspectives and seek models that illustrate this concept over time.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about existing models of scientific revolutions and technology on a timescale, questioning the expected nature of progress.
  • Another participant asserts that scientific progress is exponential, referencing historical trends and Moore's law as supporting evidence.
  • A third participant expresses a desire to find a formal model that aligns with their belief in exponential progress.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on whether scientific progress is linear or exponential, as participants express differing views and seek further evidence.

Nusc
Messages
752
Reaction score
2
Does anyone know of where I can find a model on scientific revolutions and technology on a timescale?

Would you expect it to be linear or exponential?
 
Science news on Phys.org
Would mods move this to the more appropriate section?
 
Exponential of course.
 
Yeah that's what I insisted based on the history of science and the conclusion from Moore's law but I want to see if it has actually been modeled.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 84 ·
3
Replies
84
Views
8K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K