[simorley]

> Seems to be a lot of uneasiness, of late, about the way credit is allocated in science.

Of late? You should read up on Newton/Leibniz hysterics over who invented calculus. The arguments over who invented the first light bulb, car, etc. Whether greek knowledge ( the foundation of western civilization ) originated in the near east or even in india. Heck, people still argue about who "discovered" america first. There is national, religious, ethnic, racial, gender, sexuality pride tied to "priority". It's not just in science/math, it's applies to everything.

> These figures are supposed to be idolized and idealized

Why? They weren't particularly good people. Neither were saints.

> Achilles elevated Greece by giving Greeks something to collectively aspire to or adulate.

Are you talking about science/knowledge or politics? But you are right on the point. It's what this is all about at the end of the day. Politics.

Without politics, the discovery/knowledge would be what is important. Because of politics, the people become the focal point.