Medical maxims: two views of science

Yale J Biol Med. 1979 Sep-Oct;52(5):483-6.

Abstract

Clinicians are beings with finite minds and thus need to use simplified models of the world in making decisions [1]. However, these models need not be oversimplified, as are the models encouraged by the prevalent view of science, the Mechanistic Paradigm, which are articulated as rigid maxims. A more current view of science, the Probabilistic paradigm, encourages more complex models, which can be articulated as the more flexible maxims used with insight by the wise clinician.

MeSH terms

  • Models, Biological
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Probability Theory
  • Science*