Science and tradition in the nursing discipline--a theoretical analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Philosophy of Science

Background:

• Nursing knowledge encompasses values, beliefs, and procedural elements.
• Distinguishes between theoretical nursing knowledge (a conception) and practical nursing knowledge (action-oriented).

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a view of nursing knowledge where theoretical and practical aspects hold equal importance.
• To examine the distinct roles of nursing science and nursing tradition within the nursing discipline.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of nursing knowledge components.
• Examination of the organizational roles of nursing science and tradition.

Main Results:

• Nursing knowledge is characterized by an integration of values, beliefs, and procedural knowledge.
• Nursing tradition serves as the primary collective organizer of practical nursing knowledge.
• Nursing science functions as the primary collective organizer of theoretical nursing knowledge.

Conclusions:

• Theoretical and practical nursing knowledge are equally vital to the discipline.
• Nursing science and nursing tradition play complementary, distinct roles in structuring nursing knowledge.