摘要：Scientific research is more than just data collection; rather, it inherently relies on interpretation of observations and communicating ideas—all performed through language. Therefore, the terminology used in a certain field is of high importance for analysis of its workings and growth. Here, we applied methods from the metaphor-research field to analyze the history of chronobiology, revisiting a vast corpus of circadian scientific literature published from the 19th century until today. Several metaphors, predominantly that of the ‘clock’, were used throughout this period. We demonstrate the importance of these metaphors in facilitating scientific understanding, experimental design, and the construction of the field’s main paradigms. Taken together, our findings provide what we believe is a much-needed reflection on the role of language in scientific practice. Renewing awareness of these metaphors can help reveal the limitations of the current scientific language and stimulate the search for new terminology and perspectives.
关键词：circadian rhythm ; circadian clock ; conceptual metaphor ; history and philosophy of science ; metaphors in science ; teleonomy
