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The dynamics of heresy in a profession
1Department of Sociology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|November 1, 1994
Summary
This study redefines
Area of Science:
- Science and Medicine
- Sociology of Science
Background:
- The term 'heresy' is proposed for professional ideological challenges.
- Current usage of 'heresy' is inconsistent and lacks descriptive utility.
- Distinguishing heresy from other challenges is crucial for understanding professional dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To rehabilitate and precisely define 'heresy' in professional contexts.
- To differentiate heresy from challenges to knowledge products and authority.
- To outline the stages of heretical conflict within a profession using a dramaturgical lens.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of potential heretical ideas in modern science and medicine.
- Conceptual definition and differentiation of 'heresy'.
- Application of a dramaturgical approach to model conflict stages.
Main Results:
- A refined definition of heresy is proposed, clarifying its distinct nature.
- Heresy is distinguished from challenges to established knowledge and authority structures.
- A dramaturgical framework is presented to describe the progression of heretical conflicts.
Conclusions:
- A clear definition enhances the utility of 'heresy' for analyzing ideological dissent.
- Understanding heresy's distinctiveness is vital for navigating professional evolution.
- The dramaturgical model offers a novel perspective on professional conflict and change.
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