The obsessive enforcement of ideological and methodological conformity within scientific communities. It focuses on rooting out “contamination” from non-approved ideas (e.g., philosophy), rival disciplines, or socially “impure” motivations, often through gatekeeping and moral panics about credibility.
Scientistic Purity Example: A grant committee rejecting a cross-disciplinary project blending neuroscience and contemplative traditions because it’s “tainted by spiritualism.” The pursuit of methodological purity (“real science”) overrides potential innovation, protecting the tribe’s borders more than pursuing knowledge.
by Abzugal February 8, 2026
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