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A multidimensional analysis of scientific dynamics. Part I. Case studies of mathematical logic in the 20th century

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Abstract

Sequences of empirical Lotka-like distributions of the publications of scientific areas are mapped into a multidimensional parameter space. On this basis a new definition of the notion of an epidemic phase of a discipline is introduced. A graphic representation of the parameter space along with results of an exponential regression analysis of the Lotka exponent yield an image of the inner state of a discipline and renders possible a prognosis. Examples, primarily from mathematical logic, are described in detail. The notion of a scientific elite is discussed and the hypotheses of Ortega, Merton, and Price are critically assessed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institut für Philosophie, Technische Universität München, Lothstr. 17, D-80335, München, Germany

    J. Berg & R. Wagner-Döbler

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  1. J. Berg
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  2. R. Wagner-Döbler
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Berg, J., Wagner-Döbler, R. A multidimensional analysis of scientific dynamics. Part I. Case studies of mathematical logic in the 20th century. Scientometrics 35, 321–346 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016904

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016904

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