HAVING EXCELLENT TEACHERS. A key to cutting-edge research

Abstract

This paper brings forth a ceteris paribus claim, namely good researchers have always had very good teachers. The claim is supported by three arguments, as follows: the first one, argues that doing research cannot be and should be taught. This argument is a critique of all algorithmic understandings of research. Hence, it becomes necessary to take a look at the origins of the problem, thus: the methodology of research is to be found in I. Lakatos’s works. The second argument presents five examples of outstanding researchers that had excellent teachers. The third argument highlights the importance of the participation of researchers in academic and scientific networks, for good teachers are to be found there, too. This argument is really a call to deschooling of research. At the end some conclusions are drawn.