Language Matters—in Science, as in Science Studies

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Notes

1 One might ask, as in fact many have, why, when I undertook the task of showing how language matters in science, did I choose biology? My answer: because biology is easier, especially when focusing on metaphors of gender. Biology is where you find metaphors of gender most conspicuously. But physicists often ask me, are you only talking about biology? What about physics? I replied: are you telling me that unless I make a case for physics, you won't believe what I said? In fact, I think I can make a similar case for physics, but it is harder, requiring a much deeper understanding of how language works in science. Also, one needs to consider a wider range of metaphor.