Beyond originality in scientific research: Considering relations among originality, novelty, and ecological thinking

Abstract

The bulk of recent theoretical developments argue that the stimulation of originality of scientific research is a pivotal variable with a vital nature. Such variable, on the one hand, preoccupies academic actors, whether individuals or research institutions, when establishing or evaluating research projects. On the other hand, the notion that the originality circumscribed by ecosystems and paradigms surrounding a researcher is, sometimes, overlooked. Such ecosystems dominate multi-cognitive and ethical spheres that can either stimulate or discourage originality. Thus, the query “How does the original intellectual product emerge?” becomes justifiable. The current review paper attempts to shed light on the association between the research project and the available knowledge. Moreover, it probes the associations among the concepts of uniqueness, novelty, and originality. Furthermore, it argues that the ecosystem has a significant bearing on the originality facet. The current work, also, proposes a synthesis model of originality.