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The Double Helix: Watson And Crick And The Forgotten Names

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The Double Helix: Watson and Crick and the Forgotten Names
James Watson and Francis Crick were at best interpreters in a time of constantly-expanding scientific knowledge. Despite seeming to have intellect and experience enough to make their own discoveries, the real credit for the discovery of the structure of DNA lies with the three scientists who made the most contributions to the work: Linus Pauling, Rosalind Franklin, and Maurice Wilkins. Their work in the field of DNA shed light onto the truth value of various theories that would have remained mysteries except for their accomplishments. Moreover, Watson and Crick had no qualms about stealing the work and ideas of others, nor did they have any notions of respecting their peers’ wishes, and they openly admitted to it in this text. All Watson and Crick cared about was potential glory, and the points below will outline why they are deserving of none. …show more content…

He had worked on DNA for years prior to Watson and Crick’s quest for scientific gratification. Though they may have claimed to be working towards an achievement designed to further genetic understanding, truthfully their only aim was the success and praise that would come with such a discovery. When Pauling sent his son an unpublished manuscript describing his work in DNA and his new model for the structure, they wasted no time in violating his wishes that it remain secret until its publication and immediately read it and in doing so discovered an error. Even so, after this, rather than being deflated over yet another setback, they were ecstatic, for this provided another chance to beat him to his own discovery (Watson Chapter

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