When research interest in a new topic or a new approach surges, several accompanying phenomena begin to appear. Some of those are wonderful. New discoveries are made. Previously unknown connections are revealed and those that might have been underappreciated receive the attention they warrant. Creativity is sparked. Science progresses. At the same time, however, with growing enthusiasm comes haste. Researchers rush to become part of the new trend and take advantage of emerging opportunities. Under those circumstances, there is no time for in-depth analysis. By necessity, background study and preparation is limited to the bare essentials. In essence, corners must be cut. As a result, most emerging research fields undergo an “infantile” period characterized by confusion, trial and error, and more cyclical moves than linear forward advances.

Perhaps more interesting, however, is to observe what happens next. There are two possibilities. Research will either grow out of its infancy, having refined its methods and sharpened its concepts, or continue making the same mistakes over and over again until the lack of real progress results in frustration and the eventual abandonment of a direction that once seemed fascinating and full of promise.