Watch the video below (It is long but well worth it)
When you are finished, answer the following questions in a reply to this blog post
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
She was not given adequate credit for her work and was not present to refirm her position in her research and her contribution to the effort and findings, so I would say she was robbed.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
Scientists own the words the publish, and people can not take them for their own without credit, but they can expand on the ideas or use them for inspiration.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think that it didn’t matter who exposed them to the data, it matters more that she did not receive proper recognition for what she did. The blame can’t be placed elsewhere.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Franklin did not steal Gosling, because people are not property and Raymond could choose what he wanted to do. The circumstances regarding the progress of the research, and the knowledge Gosling had was unfortunate.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think something like this could happen today, but I also think that with all the media we have today, the person robbed would have increased recognition. I also think that she could have sued for fraud now a days. This is also contributed to by the rights we now have for women now. So times have changed in that respect, but women are still not met with total equality as of yet.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I believe this is just how science works. I don’t think there is a certain level of caution you need to have with research. I think it is up to the scientist to decide what is too much or too little when it comes to their work because they know best.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes, I would say that she was robbed. She was not there to defend herself or stake claim to any of her findings, I think that James Watson took advantage of the fact that she was not around while he was writing his book.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think that scientists do have the ability to “own” their findings if they truly discover something for the first time. Although I believe that they must take the proper steps in order to patent/copyright their discoveries. Furthermore, I believe that science should be shared in order to benefit the world, the information should be available to everyone.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Gosling stated that he could not really remember who showed Wilkins Photo 51. Given that Rosalind and Wilkins did not get along very well, I don’t think its very possible that Rosalind would have shared her valuable work with Wilkins before she left; although that would speak volumes to her character.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I do not believe that Franklin “stole” Raymond Gosling from Wilkins. The timing was definitely unfortunate, but Franklin was simply better trained and better equipped at the time to carry out this research than Wilkins was. As for Gosling, working under Franklin was his personal choice, I do not believe Franklin forced him to work for her.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Something like this could definitely happen today. The difference is that now we have a plethora of legal options that scientists can utilize to avoid things like this occurring. Also, women have also progressed significantly in the STEM field since that time; and earned more respect in the laboratory on the way.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think that this is just how science works. Trial and error have led to a plethora of great scientific discoveries. Even if Franklin had been too cautious, that method definitely worked for her. She discovered some of the most crucial information about the building blocks of life.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes. I feel that she was robbed because she didn’t receive proper recognition and the deserved respect for her findings that weren’t just incidental but the result of hard work and a keen scientific mind.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I don’t personally believe that scientists can fully own the rights to revolutionary science that is going to be used worldwide and that can change the world in positive ways. I do think though that with discovery of new and important findings in science that recognition should be given and that a scientists basic right for finding new innovations is they be acknowledged by the rest of the scientific community.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Wilkins seeing photo 51 was due to Watson showing it to him because he himself could not figure out the structure underlying it. Even though that photo was from Franklin and the credit was not given to her but seeing as how Wilkins did not have good relations with her then there could have been a intent of malice to push her out of the way.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Franklin did not steal a student. He was a smart student who aligned with what she studied and saw her as a person of great intellect that he could learn from.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I defiantly think this could happen today as alot of times there is overlap in research and many people out in the world can claim the work of others. However, I do think now due the the amount scrutiny under publishing and crediting work that it is a lot harder now to just take credit for something and not at least be sued.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think there is a good medium between being too careful and attempting and learning from mistakes but because this is not a perfect world I believe that alot of science is trail and error and eventually luck. There is of course the analysis of fine combing your work and being careful there before publishing but during the time of data there is so many unknown variable that can change the outcome of your results that It would seem that Watson and Crick were less on the carelessness and more on the natural stream of working till success.
The key issue in question 3 is that Gosling claimed that it “might have been him” which is strange. You think he would have remember that he gave it”.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe that in reality she was robbed of her data, but in a sense from the information provided Rosalind Franklin didn’t have the same goals as Watson and Crick. She was out to finish her research and better the world. We know this because she had sat on the data that proved DNA is a double helix structure for months. She hadn’t published anything on her findings until Watson and Crick requested her to.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe that scientists have the rights to their data as long as they haven’t signed a contract with a college, lab, or other research position where it requires a scientist to give the rights of there work to the institution.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I believe that its understandable to not remember who shared the information because details to memories change with age. Regardless, Rosalind Franklin was not interested in sharing her data with others because she wanted to see it to completion. I would imagine the way she was treated by many of her colleagues and peers did not encourage her to share her findings.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I don’t believe she stole Raymond Gosling from Wilkins. Gosling mentions how he felt she was influential and clearly looked up to her as a scientist. It seems that Franklin and Gosling shared a similar goal.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Absolutely. In todays society we see this occurring constantly within business as well as other fields. We may not be able to see behind the closed doors of a laboratory, but its only human nature to try and better yourself. Taking others ideas and data has not changed.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I believe that Watson and Crick were using trial and error and structured the model in the most obvious format for the information that they had. Franklin may have been too cautious due to the times. She was heavily criticized and wanted to make sure she had as much information to construct a solid theory rather then wasting time and effort trying to make something stick.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I would say that she was robbed of recognition for her contribution. There is no indication that she could have come to the conclusion of the structure on her own but Watson and Crick certainly would not have, or at least not for some time, without her work.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think that raw data should be available for use for all scientists WITH attribution to the source. Scientific advancement is a group effort and I don’t know anyone really “owns” data, published work yes, but the data itself should be available for those who want it. As long as they give credit to their source.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I don’t think it is really fair to expect the scientist to remember every detail during that time. They were all excited about the new discoveries and Gosling could have shown them out of pure excitement. Or it could have been more sinister, either way the data was shared. That in of itself I don’t believe is a problem, only that they did not give credit where credit was due and talk to Franklin about her data.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Gosling chose to work with Franklin, she didn’t “steal him”. Even if she encouraged him to join her, he ultimately made the choice on who to work with.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think times have changed to an extent, however I still think it could happen today. Although it would be more difficult to be published using someone else’s data without credit, there are still other ways to get ideas and without crediting their source or use someone else’s data as a starting point without credit.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I don’t think they were too careless, I think that is just how science works. It’s not very often scientists “get it right the first time”. There is nothing wrong with trial and error until you reach the correct conclusion. I think Franklin just had a different method to her work, she was more deliberate and took her time. Not necessarily too cautious, just a different style of research
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe there is a gray area when answering this question. Science is greatly about taking something that is either already known or proposed, and doing the work to either validate, discredit, or improve the idea. So, to an extent, yes, I believe she was robbed because her contribution to their model was discounted. Furthermore, she possibly didn’t even know her findings were shared.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I would assume that if one is working for a university or a company that is funding the research then that institution owns the data rightfully.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I believe that knowing the person who is responsible for showing the data to Wilkins is pertinent to assigning or even alleviating blame. If Franklin was actually the one who shared the data then I believe all of the other parties would feel less condemned about how their research was developed.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Students gravitate to whom the feel a sense of mentorship with. Unfortunately, Wilkins wasn’t around for a while to develop that relationship with his student. However, Franklin is not responsible for what occurred in his absence.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I believe something like this could happen today. People end up in contracts where they do not own the rights to things that they create, even in other industries such as entertainment. Contrarily, times have changed and our legal system gives possibilities for individuals to fight for those rights back sometimes within certain stipulations.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
Science is definitely about trial and error. A lot of mistakes happen before discoveries are made. I think that Franklin was very meticulous and passionate about her work.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe that Rosalind Franklin was robbed of the world knowing, at the time, that she was such a huge part in the discovery of the double helix. Yes, her work, especially photo 51, was taken without her knowledge which leads to the conclusion she was robbed.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
Scientists should have all rights to their data and should be allowed to show whoever they want whatever amount of their data they want to show. If a scientist puts in all the work to come up with specific data they should “own” their data. It’s like a painter, if a painter puts in all the work to complete a painting and then someone takes it and says they made it that is illegal. So if a scientist puts in all the work to come up with some data they should own that data and have rights to it.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think Gosling’s comment about who gave Wilkins the data is smug and arrogant. He knows he has basically gotten away with showing Wilkins this whole time so he just covers himself by saying he doesn’t know if it was him or Rosalind that gave Wilkins the data. I think that’s a lie because you either did something or you didn’t.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Rosalind didn’t steal Wilkins’ student, the director of the lab failed to communicate between the colleagues correctly and so Rosalind was seen to have just taken Wilkins student but he was on a two week vacation and Rosalind just set herself up. The video says when Wilkins returned to the lab it was new and much improved, all thanks to Rosalind. In my opinion, Gosling being a student and wanting the best to learn from, he probably enjoyed the fact that Rosalind took over the lab and made it better.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think something like this could still happen today if the right people were in the right positions. Rosalind either didn’t care or cared but didn’t know they used her work. If its the latter, I think the same thing could happen to a scientist today who was focused in on the project at hand and didn’t notice a colleague taking the data elsewhere. However, I think it is a bit harder today since I feel as though everything is tracked electronically and logged very carefully.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I don’t think they were too careless, I think they were doing trial and error. However, I think they gave up their own efforts and decided to take the easy way out by taking someone else’s work to help solve theirs. I think it would have been acceptable if both Rosalind and Watson and Crick had discussed the matter and all collaborated equally, but since they went behind her back I think they just gave up on their trial and error method.
1. Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I would say so. The men took her work and took the credit for it they robbed her.
2. What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I wouldn’t say that they own the data itself, it existed long before they did and they don’t “buy it”. But they should receive the credit for what they find and they deserve to be recognized for their own discoveries.
3. What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Regardless of who showed them the data, only Watson and Crick can be held responsible as they are the ones who used the data and stole the credit for the work. Rosalind shouldn’t have to keep her entire life’s work under lock and key, they should’ve had enough respect for her not to steal it, regardless if they saw it or not.
4. Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
No, a student is not personal property, a student can make their own decisions and switch professors whenever they want. If Raymond Gosling decided he’d rather study under Franklin, that was his own personal choice, Rosalind did not “steal” him. It is not her fault that she was better trained and more experienced that Wilkins.
5. Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Oh yes, there may be good people in this world, but there are just as many bad people. Things like this still go on to this very day. The world itself may change, but human behavior itself is still the same.
6. Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I wouldn’t say that either Watson and Crick were too careless, more inexperienced maybe, but the lack of knowledge doesn’t necessarily mean careless. And no, I do not believe that Franklin was too cautious either
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes, her work paved the way for DNA structure studies, and she gave the X-ray image of DNA. Watson and Crick used her X-ray image of the helix form of DNA without her knowing and also did not give her any credit for her contributions. She deserved recognition for her contributions but instead, Watson demeaned her work and contributions to the study of DNA. However, I feel today everyone recognizes her contributions and the lying of Watson.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
Yes, scientists have the right to their data and collections. They discovered them and without the information they found, it would not be available for further studying and experiments.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think it was very arrogant. To say that he was unsure if he or Franklin herself gave them the papers is a lie and he knew that it was himself.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Franklin and Gosling worked on the X-ray diffraction together. Franklin was under the impression that she was in charge of the lab, while Wilkins was also under the impression that he was in charge of the lab. I would not say that Franklin stole Gosling from Wilkins. Franklin utilized her resources (Gosling) and Gosling was able to learn under an amazing scientist. Franklin did not need to work under Wilkins, as she was also more talented and knowledgeable than him. Gosling recognized that and took the better learning opportunity.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I would say this does happen today, if not more today than before. We live in a very competitive world and everyone loves recognition. People are constantly wanting to be the next person to make a big discovery no one else could. A lot of people will do whatever it takes, even if that means lying and stealing.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this (as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I do believe Watson and Crick were careless in their first model. They both admitted that they did not know enough about the information they had to break down their results. However, I do believe a large part of experimental science is trial and error. I feel trial and error is important in narrowing down correct results and also provides eliminating factors. I do not think Franklin was too cautious. She took her time and wanted to make sure she has her information correct before she presented it to people. She did not want to make a fool of herself and she wanted to gain respect from “the boys’ club” of DNA science. However, Franklin could have announced her findings about the “A” strand before she continued her work on the “B” strand.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Rosalind was not given credit for her findings and research and she was not there to claim them when she wasn’t given recognition. I would say she was robbed.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe that scientists do own their findings to an extent. They discovered something new that no one else was able to see. I believe that their discoveries can be added to by others but not claimed by others. If others want to reference a scientists discoveries then they will need to properly cite that information or else it could be considered stealing.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Gosling had said that he couldn’t remember who had showed Wilkins Photo 51. This is understandable because it could be hard to recall every little detail. Rosalind and Wilkins did not have a good relationship with each other so it doesn’t seem likely that she would have shared her work with Wilkins. Either way, she was not given the proper recognition for her work.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Rosalind didn’t steal the student from Wilkins. The student chose to work with Rosalind because he was more interested in her work and felt he could learn from her.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I believe this is less likely to happen today because of the legal actions put into place to help ensure people do not steal other people’s work. If this were to happen I don’t think it would go unnoticed and I believe legal action would be taken.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I do not believe they were too cautious. A lot has been discovered with the trial and error method. I believe that when using the trial and error method there are a lot of factors to think about such as unknown or confounding variables. Whether Rosalind was too cautious with her research or not she was able to discover crucial information.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I do think that Franklin was robbed of recognition in really being the pioneer with her data. While data is meant to be shared, without her knowledge or being noted as an integral part of these discoveries.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think that data should be freely shared among the science community but people should be acknowledged for their work. Depending on where scientists work, it’s likely that they do not ‘own’ the data but they should always be acknowledged.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think that is really unfortunate that he is unwilling to acknowledge his role in her data being shared with Wilkins, Watson and Crick. It is disrespectful to Franklin as his mentor.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
No, she did not ‘steal’ him. He chose to work with her as she was more advanced in the field. Any of the blame for him changing to work with Franklin belongs to J.T. Randall who brought her in while Watkins’ was out.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
While I’d love to think that there is no way this could happen today, I do think it is possible. I think there has been a lot of improvements especially in recognition of women’s work in science but I don think women, or just other scientists, could be minimized in their contributions.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I don’t believe that Watson and Crick were too careless. Science works on a trial and error methodology. At the time their first model was created they were using the information they thought was the most accurate for the time. I do not think Franklin was too cautions, especially given the circumstances. She was highly scrutinized by her colleagues and she strived for perfection.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe that Rosalind Franklin was robbed. She was robbed of the recognition she deserved for her contributions to science. It was unfair for other scientists to take her work without permission or at least recognition.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe that in a way they own their data and have rights to them but only in the sense of being recognized for their findings. Science is something that is constantly changing, being recreated, reproduced, etc. so not one person can “own” it. Ex. Saying Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb. He didn’t, he perfected it, but that often gets obscured.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Although it could be a lie, I completely understand Wilkins not remembering who showed him the data, but no matter what he robbed Rosalind Franklin of recognition at the least.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Rosalind Franklin did not “steal” Wilkins student because Raymond Gosling is a human being with a will and choice, he made the conscious decision to work with her.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Times have most definitely changed but I can still see this happening today. I believe that scientists are probably better protected than they used to be but scams still happen and people still get cheated and robbed.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this (as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
Watson and Crick were not too careless and Franklin was not too cautious, everyone interprets things and does things differently. That is just how science works, it is discovered through trial and error (experiments).
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I think she was robbed because she did not get the credit that she deserved. Somebody else published it and got all the recognition that was actually Franklin’s right. Clearly her modal was used by Watson and Crick but as far as I have read in my science books, Franklin is still recognized for at least creating the modal. Franklin still never got the nobel prize which was given to Watson and Crick.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think they own “their” data because that is something they have worked hard on. It is their right to share it or not but unless they share it, it is completely owned by them. Even after publishing their work, they should be given the credits to it.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think that Gosling might have showed the photo 51 out of excitement and not on purpose because he was inspired by Franklin and used to look up to her. Besides, I think Franklin was discouraged to share her work but Gosling showed it out of excitement.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I do not think anybody can ever steal a human from anybody else because we as humans have full authority to who to be with. Even if Rosalind encouraged Gosling to join her, Gosling had his final decision made himself.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I do not think this would happen today because times have changed and people know how to stand up for themselves and get recognized.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I would say that Franklin was just more intelligent than Watson and Crick because she did all that by herself and without any error and Watson and Crick were not too sure about their work in their first attempt.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I think Rosalind Franklin was not given the credit for her work and contribution to the discovery of the structure of DNA. I think she was robbed of the recognition she deserved. Watson and his colleagues relied heavily on her work to finish their work on “discovering the key to life” with no mention of Watson. I think it is absolutely appalling that she was not mentioned when they received the Nobel Prize.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think scientists have the right to be given credit for all their hard work. The B photo that was so clear was her intellectual property, so in my eyes, she did own it. She spent countless hours on her work and deserves the rights to the information she found.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think Gosling’s statement about who was responsible for Wilkins seeing the data was suspicious. He tried to evenly place the blame between Rosalind and himself but personally, I think he did it.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Raymond Gosling becoming Rosalind’s student happened by circumstance. I do not think there was any intention of stealing him from Wilkins. When she had arrived, Wilkins was not there, and Gosling was learning under her supervision. When Wilkins returned from holiday, Gosling remained under Rosalind’s instruction.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think society today is hyper aware of receiving and giving the credit that is deserved. It would not have gone the way it did in the 50’s. I also think that women in science are more accepted now then they were then and receive much of the credit they deserve.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think Watson and Crick were so eager to win the race of discovering the shape, they were careless in their first model. I would agree that Franklin may have been too patient in her discovery and may have been able to determine the shape had she taken more of a risk.
1. Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes, she was absolutely robbed. Her hard work and dedication ended up going un-credited. Although there is no way to know if she would have come to all the same conclusions as later scientists, her efforts should not have been forgotten.
2. What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I think it depends on the type of data. I do think that in the case of any type of study where the scientist is being specifically paid to do research by some agency, they do not own it. It is the end product that was paid for. But in any independent study, I think the scientist owns their findings. Although they do have a moral obligation to share with others, it is theirs to use as they please.
3. What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
It is not really possible to know what the true intention was for sharing the data. It was not fair to show it without her permission, however it did lead to more discoveries which was her end goal, so its a tricky situation.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
No, I don’t think that is the case. It was the student’s choice to do what he felt was best to further his research/training. It may have felt like a slap in the face to Wilkins however, which is understandable. But I do not think the intent was malicious.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think that while it is possible that it could happen again, this is highly unlikely. The ease of access to information via the internet has changed the game. Also the amount of peer – reviewing that goes on with studies today helps spread the word.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
Even though its an oxymoron, I think the phrase “science is not an exact science” applies here. I don’t think there is really such a thing as too careless or too careful. As long as the scientist does what they feel is best, and is not publishing false data, I think it is just a personal preference. Variety is the spice of life.
1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes she was robbed of her intellectual knowledge in the elaborate finding of the DNA Molecule.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it? : Yes they have fully rights to their data, because it is their painstaking effort and constant research and they deserve the copyright, just like any other publisher.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data? : He knew he was the one that stole the data,because he was the head of the Lab before Rosalind came and took over. He had no clue what Rosalin had gathered nor did he have any full understanding about the DNA. His statement about how the data got to Watson and crick was just a way to cover up his misdeed of theft.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)? No, it was not a hidden data. She even gave lectures on his finding which was not detailed and clear and worked on those findings to develop her own well detailed picture and analysis with painstaking calculations on the DNA. Which none of the could achieve. Gosling who was a student decided to work for her, because she was the best and more equipped.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed? No, It can not happen in today’s time as copyright laws and the Legal system have advanced and there are penalties if such act were committed in recent times. Also women have rights now to fight for justice, unlike in the olden days.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious? : They were not careless in their first model as science is base on trial and error, that is why scientist perform several experiments before arriving at a conclusion or drawing an hypothesis and this hypothesis can also be retested by others to prove if it is right before becoming a law or theory. So that is how the science world works. Rosalind was too cautious, that was why she worked on the project for two years, and she knew she was a woman who was not accepted in a man dominated profession. So she had to thread cautiously and guard her data to herself.
this blog post
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Rosalind Franklin was robbed because she really is nothing but a mere footnote in the history of science now. Her recognition for her research findings and contributions are long overdue so I think that it’s good she is finally being recognized in different ways because I think the way she was painted by the men of that time made her out to be something she wasn’t. She had a strong personality and was very strong willed and outspoken, if she was a man no one would’ve had a second thought about it. She enjoyed her work and didn’t quit at it and without her knowledge she was an unrecognized collaborator with Watson and Crick. She did deserve so much more than what she got during her lifetime, but she did still have an international reputation and inspired many.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
After watching this video I feel like the rights that scientists have to their data should be public if it is something that is commonly known, but if it is a new discovery I feel that they should keep it private between their most trusted colleagues. Group effort is also something to consider because no one ever just does it by themselves. There is nowhere saying that people just “own” research, there is always other factors it is not a one person effort and contributers, people can expand on an idea that inspires them but not take all the credit for it without citing and giving credit where credit is due.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Gosling claims to not remember who showed Wilkin’s the photo. I do not believe that Franklin would’ve just openly and willingly shared her work, especially since she still felt the research part of it was not over, even though phot 51 had been the sharpest image of the B form of DNA so far. There may have been bad intentions behind what went down but no one will know for sure.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Rosalind Franklin did not steal Raymond Gosling because Gosling was put under Franklin’s supervision when she arrived at Kings College, because Wilkin’s was on holiday and she was already working independently so in turn he lost his lab and his student. Wilkin’s was under the impression that Franklin would be his assistant but that wasn’t the case, she was already well educated enough to be on her own and do her own research. Gosling didn’t have to stay but he respected her enough to want to keep working with her because they seemed to get along very well and had a common goal in mind.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I do not think something like this would happen today because the circumstances for this specific case were very unusual and unfortunate. Franklin’s work was basically stolen from her, without her really even knowing. She was a woman who was truly dedicated to her work and she had people take that away from her thinking it was okay to just use it and get the hard part out of the way- which is the research. She worked out the math and innerworkings of stuff that today only takes seconds to do because of technological advancements. Something like this could definitely still happen, but not to this extent I feel like with the different advancements we have in protecting our work to make sure no one else is using it, information is spread a lot faster these days. Overlaps of research are still possible.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
The first model that was produced by Watson and Crick was so embarrassing that they were told to not make anymore. Now the scientific process is filled with plenty of trial and error, but they were so confident to showcase this to other people and to have it be so wrong was just not a good look for them. If they had taken some more time to analyze their results maybe they wouldn’t have made themselves look like they didn’t know what they were doing. Their first model was a triple helix with the emphasis of the bases of the structure being on the outside of it, instead of the inside. After obtaining photo 51 they ruled that the structure shown in the picture fit perfectly with that of a double helix. It was the symmetry told Crick that there were two chains running in opposite directions. Wilkin’s felt like Franklin was hoarding her data. I don’t think that she was being to cautious, but she was taking her time to publish something that was worth noting. She was one to take her time and was motivated to find a solution, because she liked the process.
Rachel Snabes
10/22/19
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
a. As the video depicts, Watson and Crick were given her photo behind her back by someone, possibly Gosling, which he actually states in the video. Realistically it was robbed in a way because she was not aware that her information was used in the final development and understanding of the DNA model.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
a. Scientists have the right of acknowledgment and credit for their contribution
b. In the U.S., data is technically intellectual property.
c. Patents are a great example of data protection.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
a. I think the statement is slightly absurd and maybe a dishonest statement. With such an intensive and particularly competitive environment, it is HIGHLY UNLIKELY that Gosling didn’t remember if he had given the photo to Wilkins or not. This was obviously the key to solving the question of the model so I believe the statement about exposing Rosalind Franklin as the person who provided the photo is dishonest and holds a lot of truth in how competitive it was at the time in figuring out the scientific model of DNA.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Raymond Gosling was a Ph.D. student at the time of the arrival of Rosalind Franklin and oddly enough she had received an e-mail that outlined that she would be in the lab with just Gosling. So she had the impression that she would be leading Gosling through the research in the lab.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
a. I don’t think something this scandalous would happen today, especially in such a litigious society, where people are deterred from legal action possibly being implemented. There would be a lot of legal involvement as copyright laws and plagiarism have become major topics of awareness.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
The film mentioned that Watson and Crick didn’t have a strong background or understanding of the interpretation of the crystallography. One can never be too cautious. Franklin was simply a particular person who had an exceptional education and a complex understanding of the value of specificity and precision in problem-solving. She was not afraid to speak her mind and express her understanding of a problem, even in a time where women were not as critically acclaimed for successes in research and science.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Yes. She was not given enough credit for her ground-breaking findings.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
Scientists have rights to what they publish, but people can quote it, expand on it, and further experiment with it, as long as credit is given where appropriate.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
This statement is suspicious. No matter the excuse, in science, credit should be given where credit is due. Rosalind was treated disrespectfully.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Franklin did not steal Gosling. Gosling was a smart student who’s goals aligned with Franklin. This was unfortunate for Wilkins but I do not believe this was an intentional act against him.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I do not think this would happen today as women’s place in society and in has drastically improved. A situation such as this also seems close to impossible in the age of information and technology.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
Watson and Crick were a little too careless and Franklin was a little too cautious, but this is science. People interpret results differently, and they may trial and error to a different extent depending on the outcome they want to see, the level at which they want to publish, or the novelty of the discovery.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe Rosalind was robbed by Watson and Crick because the taking of her data regardless if it was not published was taking from her work, the dedicated hard work that took countless hours to come up with.
2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe everyone has rights to written content regardless of field of work. In terms of scientific data that may presume universal nature to all people, scientists do not own information, but instead own the personal interpretation of them.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I think all the individuals were held responsible for the viewing of her data, because everyone was aware that her data had been used to make a tremendous discovery that she lacked little credit for.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I think the she didn’t steal his student because even though it may be difficult to imagine, it’s all business. Gosling is entitled to leave one employer for another, as well as, a teacher has the capability to choose the help.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I believe things like this happen all the time, not just because of the fight for popularity among the scientific world and everyone’s erge to make the next big discovery but also because of an unbalanced in equality among all groups in society, Rosalind happen to have a lot of problems because she was a woman breaking into a once dominated mans field.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think Watson and Crick were careless because they sought to win the race instead of truly seeking answers, though they may have won the race and discovered more, it was only on the help of someone else’s work. This could be what created conflict in Franklins eyes, however, maybe she feared not being taken seriously due to her gender conflict in the science community and ignored others taking her work, because she knew regardless of who is created the answers would be revealed. Is science about the better good, or being the one who discovers how to achieve it?
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
Rosalind Franklin’s data from her research was what Watson and Crick relied on to come up with their conclusion on the double-helix model. This they did without Rosalind Franklin’s knowledge or permission, and they did not even give her credit for her immense contribution, or for the use of her ground-breaking data. I will say, Yes! Rosalind Franklin was robbed.
What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it? I believe scientists have the rights to their data and discoveries as long it is the original. They do own it to some extent. However, other researchers or scientists can use the data for research modifications, future findings and analysis if only they will give credit to and acknowledge the scientist or researcher who came up with the original work.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data? As far as photo 51, which happened to be the B form of the DNA, I think Wilkins had a motive as to why he gave it to Watson without Rosalind’s consent. He just want Rosalind to be the one to conclude on the double-helix finding and take credit for it as he did not get along with her. Wilkins was just being very vindictive and malicious.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)? It was quite unfortunate that there was some miscommunication in the letter that was addressed to Franklin, which rather made for an awkward situation, considering Wilkins was absent at the time and he also did not receive a copy of that letter. Gosling wasn’t forced or coerced to work with Franklin. Whoever Gosling decided to work with was his choice. That being said I don’t think Franklin stole Gosling from Wilkins. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if Franklin’s work ethic, passion, and dedication was what enticed Gosling to work with her instead.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed? Yes, I think something like this can happen today. However, times have changed and there are legal ramifications if such things happen and legal actions are pursued or taken. It is up to scientists and researchers of the original findings to protect their work against copyright infringements.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious? I think this is just how science works. it is usually trial and error until scientists and researchers hit the jackpot. Yes Franklin was being too cautious but rightfully so especially in the kind of work environment she found herself.
1. Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I think Rosalind Franklin was robbed because of the lack of recognition. She deserve to be known for the efforts and works that she had put into the research.
What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe that scientist own their own data. That way proper credit can be given to them if their data and work is used to further the research by another scientist. Proper credit should be given to the person that make the discovery. Using work without giving credits is considering stolen work.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
Though he said he didn’t remember who was responsible for it, I think he is lying. I think it is something that is hard to forget despite his age. However despite who shown it, it is still wrong for them to use the data without giving proper credit.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I don’t think Rosalind Franklin stole Wilkins’ student. The student can make his own decision who he wants to work with. He wants to work with someone that he thinks has better skills than Wilkin and who can help with his own research career. Personally I would do the same thing.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Unfortunately, things like this still would happen today due to the grant access of data on the internet. Though the laws has become more strict in terms of copyrights over time, people would still do it. For example, students often copy others work online despite the warning of plagiarism by the professors and hope that they don’t get caught.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I don’t think they are careless in their first model. Often time with research, the first trial is not going to be perfect. Correction made from error are used to approve. Every scientists are always learning. I don’t think Franklin was too cautious either. There is nothing wrong with being careful with your work.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
yes credit was not given when credit was due. however that is looking at this current day and age, Back in those times the morals, standards in business were not as definitive as they are now.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I dont believe scientist should “own” their work, however, I do believe that they “should” own the “rights” to their work and be credited for the effort and time that was put into making the calculations / observations they are studying
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
whome exposed the data should not matter give credit where credit is due, and make the “rights” someone has been wronged
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
if people were allowed to be “owned ” once again then yes she would have stolen the information, however based on this day and age NO she did not steel it.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
yes im sure that this could happen today, and im sure that it does all the time, the big caveat is that today you can freely SUE someone for misuse of intellectual property
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or this is just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think this is how science works, no one knows the correct answers and science is one way to elimiate some of the misundersandings
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
This is a difficult question. In respect to the fame and recognition she would have gained from her contribution, she was robbed. However, never in the video does it suppose that she would have figured out the structure on her own. However, the same could be said of Watson and Crick.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I do not believe scientists should “own” data, nor have “rights” to it. Scientific advancement should not be boiled down to pure competition, being that any developments and understandings it brings should be to the benefit of all mankind. That said, scientists who participate in novel research and make new discoveries SHOULD be lauded with honors, and attributed to in references by researchers working on projects that use their research. Credit must be given.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
I believe Gosling was most likely just covering for himself by stating that he wasn’t sure if it was him or Rosalind who gave Wilkins the data.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
I think that is up for debate. I think she persuaded him to join her. As to what she said that encouraged him, that is more or less lost to time. However ultimately, it was Gosling’s decision to work with her.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
I think times have changed to an extent, however I still think it could happen today. Although it would be more difficult to be published using someone else’s data without credit, there are still other ways to get ideas and without crediting their source or use someone else’s data as a starting point without credit.
Absolutely. In a situation where the research subject is high stakes enough, a breakthrough is near, and there are multiple parties within relative distance to making the discovery first, it could absolutely happen. Even scientists are human, and like all humans can struggle with pride. Competing over fame and fortune, be it at the Roman colosseum, or being the first to discover the structure of DNA, can and does result in the use of underhanded methods to achieve ends.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I think they were just following the scientific method. Of course the pressures of competition to be the first to discover it probably contributed to rushing to that model. However, the unveiling of it and its subsequent ridicule helped them redirect their research and ultimately come up with the correct model. I do not believe Franklin was too cautious. She just had a slower and more methodical approach to her research. Neither approach was wrong nor right, and both ultimately contributed to the discovery.
(1) Was Rosalind Franklin “Robbed”?
I believe that Rosalind was “robbed” because the data that she had collected and worked hard to find was used without her knowledge or permission. Franklin was robbed of her recognition for the part she played in the discovery of the structure of DNA.
(2) What “rights” do scientists have to their data? Do they “own” it?
I believe that scientists to have a right to own their data that they have originally found. However, in the pursuit of understanding and bettering humankind and the world around us, I think that data can and should be used by other scientists to make new discoveries or further research. As long as credit is given to the scientist who originally found the data.
(3) What do you think of Gosling’s statement at the end of the video about who was responsible for Wilkins (and thus Watson and Crick) seeing the data?
In the video, Gosling had claimed that he did not remember who had given photo 51 to Wilkins. While I cannot say if he is being truthful or not, I believe that whatever the intent was for sharing the photo, it was done without permission. From the video, it is easy to gather that Franklin was a determined and hardworking individual. If she was not ready to share the photo, it could be because she wanted to further research it.
(4) Did Rosalind Franklin “steal” Wilkins’ student (Raymond Gosling)?
Unfortunately, there was the miscommunication from the letter about everyone in the labs role. However, people cannot be owned or given and, therefore, Gosling I think would have had the choice of if he wanted to work with Franklin or not and he chose to work with her.
(5) Do you think something like this would happen today? Have times changed?
Yes, I do think something like this could happen today. I think times have changed for the fact that data and information is more readily accessible. I would hope that scientists are in their fields, not for fame but for a better understanding of their field and a pursuit of knowledge. The video portrayed Watson and Crick as only wanting to win the race to discover the structure of DNA.
(6) Were Watson and Crick too careless in their first model, or is this ( as some have suggested) just how science works, by trial and error? Was Franklin too cautious?
I don’t think Watson and Crick were too careless in their first model. I think that this is how science works, by trial and error. I also don’t think Franklin was too cautious. She seemed like a person who would want to do as much research as possible before putting out an idea.