A rational scale of critical editorial evaluation

JUN 01, 1967

Van Derck Fréchette

Ralph H. Condit

THE value of the criterion of minimum astonishment as a guide to scientific appraisal has been cited by Gilman. While Gilman deplores the quasiqualitative inexactness of the criterion he offers no hope for a quantitative treatment. However, the statement of the generalized principle together with epistemological considerations have led us to quantize the parameter fundamental to its quantitative treatment in the special case of editorial scientific comment.

This article is only available in PDF format

More about the authors

Van Derck Fréchette, State University of New York College of Ceramics at Alfred University.

Ralph H. Condit, University of California Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, Livermore, Calif..

Physics Today is looking for a Senior Editor. Apply Now.

Related content

Features

Article

Speak easy: The educational benefits of a three-minute research talk

The ability to communicate a key message clearly and concisely to a nonspecialized audience is a critical skill to develop at all educational levels.

February 05, 2026 04:16 PM

Features

Article

Making magnetized plasmas in the lab

With strong magnetic fields and intense lasers or pulsed electric currents, physicists can reconstruct the conditions inside astrophysical objects and create nuclear-fusion reactors.

February 04, 2026 01:14 PM

Features

Article

Exposing life’s limits with dimensionless numbers

A crude device for quantification shows how diverse aspects of distantly related organisms reflect the interplay of the same underlying physical factors.

January 27, 2026 03:35 PM

Features

Article

Celebrations of the international quantum year

Events held around the world have recognized the past, present, and future of quantum science and technology.

January 26, 2026 02:20 PM

This Content Appeared In