Polarization in research or mere dissent – a need for better demarcation

Dr Bjørn Hofmann's views on polarization in research are insightful. However, many if not most types of differences in scientific opinions might thus be included as polarization. It could be argued that true polarization in scientific research should include only individuals and groups approximating the Lakatosian "research program" type, whereby polarized research parties could tangibly defend their own core theses, which have yet to be falsified, with heuristic pursuits. Otherwise, such differences are better classified as dissents, although the latter, beyond being merely annoying, could also be disruptive for research.