Part 8/14:
This gatekeeping stifles innovation and preserves ideological dominance, which can be detrimental to scientific progress.
The Role of "Amateur" Scientists in Scientific Breakthroughs
Central to the critique is the idea that the most groundbreaking scientists—those who have historically changed the course of knowledge—are often amateurs. They possess certain psychological traits: high IQ, a degree of anti-sociality, low agreeableness and conscientiousness, and a tendency for intense focus and independence. Such individuals are less constrained by institutional conformism and more willing to pursue radical ideas.
Genius Traits and Non-Conformity