A filmmaker wants to depict a realistic dramatization of a scientist making and communicating an important scientific discovery. Which plot description would best depict the methods of discovery and communication that a modern professional scientist uses?
Answer
A
The scientist collaborates with others to plan and carry out an experiment and then writes a paper that has a clear conclusion. He submits it to a professional journal for peer review, after which the results are presented publicly.
B
The scientist works with a few other scientists in a secret lab that is sponsored by a large business corporation. When the scientists have results, they contact others in the scientific community to report their results.
C
The scientist works alone in a lab until he makes a dramatic breakthrough and then immediately announces the results through a worldwide press conference.
D
The scientist seeks input and data from a wide range of people of different scientific backgrounds and then publishes all the data and results on the Internet so that all the collaborators can apply it to their individual research.
Explanation
Modern professional scientists commonly collaborate to plan and conduct experiments, then communicate their findings in a paper submitted to a scientific journal. Peer review lets other experts evaluate the methods and conclusions before the results are presented publicly. Choice A describes this process; an immediate press conference or simply posting results online would skip important parts of scientific communication.
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