It is the intention of useful science to contribute to a store of general knowledge. This is a fundamental goal of all research journals, but it’s not the only objective. A well-written article could be misinterpreted or even be judged in error as unsuitable for publication because of an insufficient utility (for instance, where a research study has been improperly translated into practical applications).
The pursuit of pure knowledge should not be hindered by calls for relevance. Indeed, practical questions could inspire to conduct new research (as the case in the case of Michael Faraday’s electrical experiments, that were inspired by his interest in lightning).
We also know that technology applications can come from various sources. A medical trip to Easter Island examined the population’s extraordinary high resistance to tetanus. Later soil samples taken from the site were sent to Ayerst Pharmaceuticals and further research into natural antimicrobials was conducted.
These examples prove that the distinction between « pure » and « applied » research is false. It is more beneficial to encourage the development and use of a range of practical applications that can result from research results. This will also aid in the development of the abilities of scientists to recognise the potential of their research. This is the primary goal of Translational Ecology that aims to alter the fundamental paradigm of science by explicitly involving all stakeholders in the creation and application of scientific knowledge. 2017).