Trust and credibility were key factors in shaping scientific knowledge from "summary" of Leviathan and the Air-Pump by Steven Shapin,Simon Schaffer
The establishment of trust and credibility played a critical role in the formation and dissemination of scientific knowledge during the period examined in Leviathan and the Air-Pump. The credibility of individuals involved in the scientific enterprise was paramount, as their reputations and standing within the scientific community determined the acceptance and dissemination of their findings. Without a foundation of trust, scientific knowledge could not be effectively communicated or accepted by others. Scientists relied on trust to establish the credibility of their claims and observations. This trust was built on a combination of personal integrity, expertise, and adherence to established norms and protocols within the scientific community. Scientists were expected to conduct their research with honesty and rigor, ensuring that their methods were transparent and their results reproducible. By upholding these standards, scientists could earn the trust of their peers and the broader public, enhancing the credibility of their work. In the case of the dispute between Thomas Hobbes and Robert Boyle over the nature of air and the operation of the air-pump, issues of trust and credibility were central. Both Hobbes and Boyle were respected figures within the scientific community, with established reputations for intellectual rigor and honesty. However, their differing perspectives and interpretations of experimental results led to a breakdown in trust between them, ultimately shaping the trajectory of scientific knowledge in this area. The credibility of witnesses and observers was also crucial in shaping scientific knowledge. Eyewitness testimonies and accounts of experimental results were often the primary sources of information for scientists seeking to understand natural phenomena. As such, the trustworthiness of these individuals was essential in determining the validity and reliability of their observations. By establishing trust in the veracity of their witnesses, scientists could build a solid foundation of credibility for their knowledge claims.- Trust and credibility were foundational elements in the construction and dissemination of scientific knowledge during the period examined in Leviathan and the Air-Pump. Without trust in the integrity and expertise of scientists, the acceptance and validation of scientific claims would have been impossible. By upholding standards of honesty, transparency, and rigor, scientists were able to establish their credibility and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in their respective fields.
