This time's recommendation!The special feature on science is "Aim! Doctoral course", and the title is "Three things I want to start right now if I return to the doctoral course" for the doctoral course at Ritsumeikan University. I would like to introduce a digest of the lecture contents that I talked about.Due to space limitations, I can't give you all the details, but if you have any questions, please refer to the recent book "Letters from Learning" (Shogakukan).I'm sure it will be a hint.

1: Trying to pursue a true "specialty"

　Enrolling in a doctoral program at a graduate school means pursuing a specific specialty.But what is "specialty" in the first place?The word "education" is often used as an antonym, but I think it is different.That is "whole".The specialty that doesn't try to know the whole thing is just "individual", and the more you dig into it, the narrower and finer it becomes.A specialty in the true sense is that the more you dig into it, the deeper it becomes, because its purpose is universal.To be deepened is, for example, an ontology such as "what does it mean to pursue one's own question (as an academic discipline) ..." or "what does" science "mean?" It is to have a thought that touches a similar perception.

2: Take care of words

　Even if we value words, we do not want to give advice such as "If you want to go on to a doctoral course, please touch something other than science such as literature and art."The mathematical formulas used in science are also words, and even the consciousness that scientific theory is universal is due to words.Words are everything.The mathematician Kiyoshi Oka said, "Mathematics is not a theory but an emotion," but in the end, I think I wanted to say this.I would like everyone to take this phrase as their own.For doctoral students, being aware of this may lead to a sense of discomfort in the current "science".But at the same time, it should lead to the correct guidance of the future "science".

3: Don't get caught up in "getting a specialty first"

　Do you know the word "T-type human resources"?This is a concept based on the idea that it is important to become familiar with other fields after pursuing one specialty.But I doubt this.Certainly, from my own experience, it was only after I got my PhD that I somehow "understood" other areas.However, acquiring expertise also means being trapped in a fixed thinking pattern in the first place.In the coming era, where information and choices will be flooded and diversity will be emphasized, we will not only be specialized, but also feel the subtle changes in the atmosphere of the times, and act honestly with our own beliefs without being bound by conventional wisdom. It is also required.If so, I feel that it is a little outdated to acquire expertise first and then expand understanding in other fields.
　"We are unknowingly wearing a shell of thought."Learn while always being aware of this.I think that is the food for growing up as a researcher.I want you to cultivate your doubtful eyes in yourself, with your own caution. (Continue)