Values

Disciplinary matrices (or paradigms) are a particular kind of order that may be discerned in some social structures. These social structures can be called scientific communities. We describe the relevant sense of order by describing the elements of the paradigm--symbolic generalisations, models, values and exemplars.

The values of science can be described at two levels, which apply to the internal cohesion of the community working under the paradigm and to its legitimacy in the broader community (society in general) respectively. The first, then, defines the value of good quality (worthwhile or valuable) research by an individual member within the specific community working under the paradigm. This will often involve standards of precision and thoroughness, writing style and, of course, the orthodox identification of "enemy positions", i.e., those "other" disciplines that do not share the relevant values.

The second, meanwhile, defines the value of the paradigm's research to concerns that go beyond the paradigm. This will also involve its share of "othering", though now in terms of broader social movements. More important, however, are ideas about the value of science in general and the value of the paradigm's research to society. Such values, in turn, come in different varieties. Thus, "strategy research" (a branch of management studies) often emphasises its commitment to "the bottom line", i.e., to making a contribution to the profitability of firms. Some economists subscribe to the same line, and others to a broader notion of "economic efficiency" at a national or international level. Still other economists are committed to "social justice", just as many sociologists pursue lines of research devoted to "cultural criticism". There are natural scientists who are devoted to improving the conditions of life on the planet, whether human, animal or vegetable. And there are natural scientists, philosophers and sociologists who are interested in what they call "knowledge for its own sake" or, simply, "truth". Paradigms may form around any combination of such values.

Values are one of the elements that distinguishes paradigms from each other and they are subject to change. They are often very much a part of what connects a paradigm to its broader social context, even as they mark their autonomy from it. Their description is an important part of the delineation of the order constituted by a disciplinary matrix.