How to solve Essay Title 5 for the Nov 2024 TOK series
Title: In the production of knowledge, are we too quick to dismiss anomalies? Discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge.
The Natural Sciences
In our pursuit of knowledge, we rely on established theories and evidence to build a coherent understanding of the natural world. Are we too quick to dismiss anomalies that challenge the status quo, and are we stupid for overlooking potential opportunities for groundbreaking discoveries?
We may dismiss anomalies too quickly
Dismissing anomalies may hinder scientific progress since anomalies can lead to breakthroughs. For example, Alexander Fleming investigated an anomaly which led to the first antibiotic, penicillin. Anomalies can thus aid in the production of knowledge, leading to new insights and new paradigm shifts.
Secondly, when an experiment’s resultss result in an anomaly, scientists can feel a compellation to question their main assumptions. For example, the famous Michelson-Morley experiment yielded null results, but their willingness to reevaluate their initial assumptions eventually led to a paradigm shift.
However, there are things to consider:
However, there is an inherent aspect of the scientific method with an expectation for anomalies to be dismissed. While anomalies are unexpected data points that can be scrutinised, such as the Galazy Growth Mystery, they have a tendency to introduce noise or errors into scientific investigations. These anomalies usually only reaffirm existing theories or reveals underlying mechanisms.
Secondly, the scrutinisation of anomalies can result in the loss of significant resources. For example, scientists all over the world investigated the anomalous N-Rays phenomenon and ended up wasting valuable scientific resources such as time and funding. While it’s important to scrutinise anomalies, pursuing them too much without sufficient validation can be a disadvantage.
The Arts
We may dismiss anomalies too quickly
In the artistic community, artists who are anomalies often foster creativity and innovation. For example, critics initially dismissed avant-garde theater because it radically differed from traditional artistic norms. However, the movement introduced new techniques and influenced modern art and design to a large degree.
Anomalies in the arts also bring in the opportunity to challenge conventions. For example, Ernest Hemingway’s prose was initially dismissed by literary critics for lacking ‘emotional depth’, since he wrote his prose in an understated manner. While writers and artists can be condemned for their perceived lack of artistic talent and ability, there can be deliberate omissions in art upon further inspection.
However, there are things to consider:
It’s also important to remember anomalies have the capacity to dilute artistic quality. For example, while abstract expressionism produced remarkable artwork, a few pieces such as ‘Colour Explosion’ or ‘Chaos Unleashed’ seemed too spontaneous and lacked in ability to resonate with audiences. Some anomalies may hinder meaningful conversation in the world of art.
Secondly, anomalies can be dismissed by if it has a limited perspective or is culturally insensitive. For example, Chris Ofili’s 1996 painting depicted sacred imagery alongside elephant dung, which sparked controversy between critics and supporters. While anomalies are usually expected to be celebrated, we can suggest for ethical sensitivity to be upheld or considered alongside artistic freedom.
Related: The Complete Guide to the Nov 2014 TOK Essay Titles
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