Twenty methods of scientific discoveries

(generalizing the history of revolutionary discoveries=)

1. Making the problem familiar

2. Making the problem strange
3. Trying remote analogies
4. Normal research that solves a particular problem by using a new approach
that only later on is recognized as a general principle of a theory.
5. Introducing a contradicting idea as merely an instrument for the task of
theoretical calculations that later on is recognized as a general principle of a
theory.
6. Considering a general relation that appeared in contradiction with the
principals of natural sciences as a new specific law of the new field of
natural phenomena.
7. A successful idea used for solving a particular problem later understood as a
fundamental principle.
8. Postulating a “crazy” approach as a temporary model.
9. Introducing a basically contradictory but effective idea in presumption that
the contradiction may be resolved in future progress of science.
10. Putting physical meaning into a purely mathematical abstraction.
11. Arbitrarily postulating an agent necessary for the survival of a theory.
12. Following the idea of symmetry.
13. Generalizing a particular solution.
14. Considering a theoretical system with an alternative axiom.
15. Being ready to violate and reject a fundamental principle of natural
philosophy.
16. Considering universal physical constants as being time-dependent.
17. Discussing the problem under research with colleagues and also talking ones
mind to any one else having slightest interest to it.
18. Keeping a watchful eye on all new publications on fundamental basic
problems with the goal of reaching their true meanings.
19. Time to time trying to get a new solution for a fundamental scientific
problem.
20. Trying luck in a completely new field of research.
21. Learning the history of science