Chirony of stereochemical metaphors

Abstract

The role and effects of idioms and metaphors on scientific models such as stereochemistry are discussed. There is a direct relationship between the formation of idioms and development of metaphors, which place great value to convey features of an empirical phenomenon, either by direct mapping of properties or by absurd contrast. The metaphors created from idioms create difficulties for the students and scientists, who have to use extra information, to understand and use the model properly. The misuse of metaphors leads to mistakes and misinterpretations, and create problems for interdisciplinary research, reducing the benefits of sharing expertise. An idiomatic phrase 'Memory of Chirality' is also interpreted.