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The heuristic value of controversy in science

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 February 2007

Scott O. Lilienfeld*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322 http://www.psychology.emory.edu/clinical/lilienfeld/index.html

Abstract

Ceci et al.'s (2006) findings remind us that tenure rarely serves its intended purpose. I argue that tenure often fails in part because many faculty members possess an insufficient appreciation for the heuristic value of controversy in science and other disciplines. Using two case examples from clinical/personality psychology, I show how controversial positions can draw sharp criticism while facilitating scientific progress.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2007

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