TOK EXHIBITION Object 1: “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions” by Thomas S. Kuhn
- Optional Theme: Knowledge and the Knower
- Rationale: Kuhn’s seminal work introduces the concept of paradigm shifts within scientific communities, fundamentally challenging the notion of scientific progress as a linear accumulation of knowledge. The book argues that the reliability of scientific knowledge is influenced by the prevailing paradigms or conceptual frameworks within which scientists operate. These paradigms, which determine what questions are asked and how evidence is interpreted, can both enable and constrain the development of reliable knowledge. Kuhn’s analysis suggests that shifts in paradigms, while disruptive, are necessary for the advancement of science, as they allow for the overcoming of anomalies that the previous paradigms could not account for. This object underscores the impact of theoretical frameworks on the reliability of knowledge, illustrating that what is considered reliable can change with shifts in underlying assumptions and worldviews.
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TOK EXHIBITION Object 2: A Map of the London Underground
- Optional Theme: Knowledge and Technology
- Rationale: The London Underground map, designed by Harry Beck in 1931, revolutionized the way people navigated the city’s subway system by prioritizing clarity and ease of use over geographical accuracy. This object exemplifies how the simplification and abstraction of information, while enhancing usability, can also impact the reliability of knowledge by omitting or distorting certain features of reality. Beck’s design highlights the trade-offs between accuracy and utility in the production of knowledge, with the map’s reliability being contingent upon the specific purposes it serves. The map’s evolution over time also reflects ongoing efforts to balance these considerations, adapting to changes in the underground network and the needs of its users. This object prompts reflection on how technological and design choices influence the reliability of knowledge, particularly in terms of how information is represented and understood.
Objects in the TOK exhibition serve as tangible manifestations of complex TOK concepts, allowing students to explore and demonstrate their understanding of knowledge in a concrete and relatable context. They act as catalysts for deep reflection, discussion, and analysis, bridging abstract theory with real-world examples and personal experiences. By strategically choosing objects that offer clear relevance and depth, students position themselves to deliver a compelling exhibition that fully addresses the criteria for a 10/10 score.
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