On The Shoulders Of Giants by Robert K. Merton

1. What is the main theme of 'On the Shoulders of Giants'?

A) The cumulative nature of scientific knowledge.
B) The role of technology in science.
C) The history of philosophy.
D) The individual achievements of scientists.

2. Who is the author of 'On the Shoulders of Giants'?

A) Thomas Kuhn.
B) Imre Lakatos.
C) Karl Popper.
D) Robert K. Merton.

3. What metaphor does Merton use in his title?

A) In the shadow of giants.
B) On the shoulders of giants.
C) Through the lens of giants.
D) In the footprints of giants.

4. What type of research is highlighted in Merton's work?

A) Purely experimental.
B) Quantitative only.
C) Theoretical only.
D) Historical and sociological.

5. What is the Matthew Effect?

A) The idea of diminishing returns.
B) The idea that everyone is equal.
C) The idea that the rich get richer.
D) The idea of social mobility.

6. In which field did Merton primarily establish his work?

A) Physics.
B) Psychology.
C) Sociology.
D) Economics.

7. What does Merton explain as a disadvantage of the emphasis on individual scientists?

A) It overlooks collaborative contributions.
B) It fosters innovation.
C) It encourages independence.
D) It enhances competition.

8. What does Merton emphasize about scientific progress?

A) It is independent from history.
B) It is determined by technology.
C) It is entirely original.
D) It builds on previous knowledge.

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