Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
2018
Department
Biological Sciences
Abstract
The language of science is largely metaphorical. Scientists rely on metaphor and analogy to make sense of scientific phenomena and communicate their findings to each other and to the public. Yet, despite their utility, metaphors can also constrain scientific reasoning, contribute to public misunderstandings, and, at times, inadvertently reinforce stereotypes and messages that undermine the goals of inclusive science. This paper 1) examines the generative potential of metaphors to the advancement of scientific knowledge and science communication, 2) highlights the ways in which outdated metaphors may limit scientific inquiry and contribute to public misunderstandings, and 3) critically analyzes the implications of cryptic social and political messages embedded in common metaphors in the life sciences.
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Taylor, C. & Dewsbury, B. M. (2018). On the Problem and Promise of Metaphor Use in Science and Science Communication. J. Microbiol. Biol. Educ., 19(1). doi: 10.1128/jmbe.v19i1.1538
Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/jmbe.v19i1.1538
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.