BMAT essay

In questions of science, the authority of a thousand is not worth the humble reasoning of a singe individual (Galileo)
What does this statement imply? How does this idea contrast with the reality of modern science? Can you reconcile the value of the individual’s convictions with the need for peer review and recognition by the larger community?

Criteria: all aspects of the questions addressed, making excellent use of the material and generating an excellent counter-proposition or argument. The argument is cogent. Ideas expressed in clear and logical way, considering a breadth of relevant points and leading to a compelling synthesis or conclusion.
Every paragraph has to have one example to back the point.