Question 1 · 10 marks · 156 words written
Opening · a definition
Institutional imperatives are those functions which are satisfied by parts by its very definition. In this context of science, Merton identifies four institutional imperatives that define science.
Body · points
→ UNIVERSALISM: Science should be universal in its approach rather than focus on certain particularistic aspects of society e.g. science moves from particular to general as Coorg study gave idea of dominant caste - [M.N Srinivas]
→ Communism: Science should have an orientation of communism by which
different theories could be accomodated and debated e.g: conflict v/s consensus view of society.
→ Disinterestedness: The researcher should not have a particular value or personal interest in research e.g: James mill's communal history of India and divide and rule of British.
→ Organized skepticism is the hallmark of research where science looks beyond self-evident view e.g: study in Britain showed watching TV improved children's communication than make them dumber per popular belief.
Close · a summary
Thus Merton rightly identifies the four essence of science.