What roadblocks might you face, working outside the science community?
Plase see the latest post, which I saw first.
Sra
Roadblocks to what? Getting a scientific theory accepted? The peer review process favors researchers who are established in their field, which can be somewhat unfair.
This can tend to be a closed society that is reluctant to accept new ideas and researches outside their chosen field.
Major scientific discoveries and theories by Wegener (of tectonic late motion) and Alvarez (of the massive extinction probably caused by an asteroid 65 million years ago) were not accepted for many years because the scientists were not geologists, and were resented.
The first paper on a working visible light laser, by Maiman, was rejected by Physical Review Letters, a leading journal, possibly because he worked in industry and was not an established academic. The importance and newness of lasers were not believed by the editors of the journal. Maiman's work was later published by the equally prestigious British journal Nature.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/11/obituaries/11maiman.html
There are other example such as "cold fusion" where the peer review process has helped screen out bad science.
Working outside the science community can present several roadblocks due to the potential lack of familiarity with scientific principles and practices. Here are some common roadblocks you might face:
1. Limited Access to Data: As a non-scientist, you might face challenges in accessing scientific databases, journals, or research publications, which can limit your access to up-to-date information and research findings.
2. Lack of Expertise: Without a scientific background, you may find it difficult to understand complex scientific concepts or communicate effectively with scientists. This can hinder your ability to engage in meaningful discussions or collaborations with scientific professionals.
3. Misinterpretation and Miscommunication: Scientific concepts or findings can be intricate and nuanced. Without a proper understanding, you may misinterpret or miscommunicate scientific information, leading to inaccuracies or misunderstandings.
4. Absence of Peer Review: Peer review is a crucial step in ensuring the quality and validity of scientific research. Working outside the science community, you may not have access to a peer review process, which can make it challenging to assess the reliability of scientific information.
5. Limited Networking Opportunities: The science community fosters networking and collaboration, which can lead to new insights and opportunities. Working outside this community may restrict your access to these valuable connections and hinder your ability to stay updated on the latest scientific developments.
To overcome these roadblocks, it is essential to invest in self-education and seek reputable sources of scientific information. Engaging in online courses, attending scientific conferences, reading scientific literature, and interacting with scientists can help you overcome these challenges and remain informed about scientific advancements.