cumulativism

Cumulativism is a philosophical perspective that emphasizes the gradual accumulation of knowledge and understanding over time. It suggests that scientific progress, for instance, is not typically marked by sudden, revolutionary breakthroughs that overturn all previous ideas, but rather by a steady building upon existing theories and discoveries. New findings are integrated into the existing body of knowledge, refining and expanding upon it. This view contrasts with ideas like Kuhnian paradigms shifts, which propose more discontinuous and transformative changes in scientific understanding.

In cumulativism, the process of learning and discovery is seen as a continuous trajectory. Each new piece of information or validated hypothesis adds to what is already known, making the overall understanding more comprehensive. This perspective often highlights the importance of past research and the interconnectedness of different fields of study. It implies that even seemingly small advancements can contribute significantly to the larger picture of human knowledge. The concept can be applied not only to science but also to other areas where knowledge and understanding evolve, such as history, art, and social development.