Abstract
Merton argues that empirical research does not only test theory. An unanticipated finding can redirect it when the observer recognises the accident as strategic.
Merton, R. K. (1948). American Sociological Review, 13(5), 505. DOI
Key findings
- Serendipity pattern — An unexpected observation develops theory only when the observer was already prepared to see why it matters.
- Not a method — The essay describes how research and theory feed each other. It is not a protocol for browsing.
Limits
Theoretical essay in American Sociological Review (1948). Crossref and the DOI citation record the start page as 505. It does not measure whether an archive outperforms a live conversation.
Application
When you are surprised by a connection, write the preparation that made it visible before you call the accident a method (Serendipity).