The Journal of Science Policy and Research Management
Online ISSN : 2432-7123
Print ISSN : 0914-7020
Hypothesis and Actual Proof in Biosciences
Kenji SEKIKAWA
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JOURNAL FREE ACCESS

1991 Volume 6 Issue 1 Pages 24-30

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Abstract
Generally, biology has been regarded as a science of observation and record. However, since J.D. Watson and F.H.C. Crick presented their work in "A Structure of Nucleic Acid," molecular biology, which is the main current in the biology today, has developed through a "hypothesis-proof" style of research. Through this style of research, biological phenomenon can be grasped logically and simply. The hypothesis serves as the guide for research and can become a new contribution to science through proof or disproof. This route from hypothesis to proof is the challenge of the research and can follow many paths, as illustrated by cases such as the discovery of the operon or the major regulatory genes for mammalian sexual development. It is often commented that Japanese scientists are poor at research which involves the hypothesis-proof style. However, as exemplified by S. Ohno in his article "Major Regulatory Genes for Mammalian Sexual Development," Japanese researchers are increasing adopting this style of research and getting excellent results.
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1991 Japan Society for Research Policy and Innovation Management
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