Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the concept of "research," exploring its definition, context, and relation to cooking as a metaphor. Participants examine the nature of research in various fields, including physical and social sciences, and reflect on the implications of replicating results over time.
Discussion Character
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
- Meta-discussion
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that the meaning of "research" is context-dependent and varies based on the field and circumstances.
- One participant proposes a comparison between research and cooking, emphasizing precision in research.
- Another participant argues that the perception of what constitutes research may change over time, as illustrated by the example of replicating results from different eras of scientific literature.
- There is a suggestion that social sciences allow for broader interpretations of research outcomes, contrasting with physical sciences.
- Some participants express skepticism about the classification of certain fields as "science," questioning the validity of terms like "information science" and "political science."
- One participant reflects on the importance of defining research for students who have not yet engaged in it, indicating a need for clarity in understanding the concept.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the definition and nature of research, with no consensus reached. Some agree on the contextual nature of research, while others debate the legitimacy of various scientific fields.
Contextual Notes
Participants highlight the limitations of definitions and the influence of context on the understanding of research. There are unresolved questions about what qualifies as research across different disciplines.