Benjamin Franklin’s Scientific Work

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN’S SCIENTIFIC WORK Introduction  Benjamin Franklin, a prominent figure in American history, made significant contributions to science in addition to his political and literary achievements.  This lecture explores Donald Hovey's dissertation, completed in 1962, which combines case studies of Franklin's scientific thinking with experimental studies of problem-solving related to Franklin's work. Combining History of Science and Psychology  In 1962, it was daring to integrate historical data from the history of science into an experimental psychology dissertation. A compromise was made to combine case studies with experimental problem-solving studies.  The hybrid dissertation was titled "Experience and Insight: Experiments on Problem-Solving and a Case Study of Scientific Thinking." Examining Franklin's Scientific Problem Solving  Donald Hovey noted interesting similarities in how Benjamin Franklin approached and solved various scientific problems.  Hovey questioned the common belief that Franklin's interest in electricity was sparked by a single encounter and quick discoveries. Instead, he proposed a more nuanced view based on historical evidence. Key Insights from Hovey's Study 1. Similar Schemata for Different Problems: Franklin applied the same problemsolving schemata to disparate issues. For example, he used a model involving water flow in canals to explain storm movement. 2. Role of Experience: Experimental subjects given similar problems to Franklin's were not able to solve them, emphasizing that having the necessary components for problem solving doesn't guarantee a solution. Experience with relevant materials is crucial. 3. Long-Standing Scientific Commitment: Hovey examined the hypothesis that Franklin had a long-standing commitment to certain scientific ideas, explaining his originality and apparent speed in his work on electricity. 4. Conceptual Structure: Franklin's theory of electricity included elements like atomism, conservation, equilibrium, and others. Some of these ideas could be traced back to his earlier writings. 5. Experimental Findings: Hovey conducted experiments on general aspects of problem-solving. He concluded that problem-solving behavior results from the interaction between the individual's models and the situation characteristics. Comparisons with Darwin's Problem Solving  Gruber and Gruber (1962) noted that Charles Darwin also applied similar schemata repeatedly in problem solving, including the development of his coral reef theory, which bore a resemblance to his theory of evolution.  Even well-developed models and schemata are not automatically applied to new problems, highlighting the role of creative thinking. Thought Forms in Scientific Work  The study of thought forms, as proposed by Keegan, aims to identify and understand the recurring structures of belief systems or theoretical models in individuals' work.  Thought forms are related to the themes that cut across various projects and enterprises, offering a way to analyze the organization of knowledge and beliefs. Conclusion  Donald Hovey's dissertation on Benjamin Franklin's scientific work provides valuable insights into how historical case studies and experimental psychology can be combined to understand the cognitive processes of creative thinkers.  It underscores the importance of experience, long-standing commitments, and problem-solving schemata in creative problem solving.  The concept of thought forms offers a framework for studying the recurring structures of belief systems in individuals' work, contributing to a deeper understanding of scientific thinking.