Understanding Philosophy of Science

ISBN-13: 9780415221566 / Angielski / Twarda / 2001 / 304 str.

James Ladyman

Opis

Without scientific theory, the technology developments of recent years would not have been possible. In this exceptionally clear and engaging introduction to philosophy of science, James Ladyman explores the scope of natural science and its implications for human life. With the focus firmly upon realism, he discusses how fundamental philosophical questions can be answered by science and how scientific theory can confirm and inform our basic and intrinsic knowledge.

Recenzje

'An excellent introduction to philosophy of science that can be recommended as a starting point to the general reader... The writing is exceptionally clear and the text is enlivened by periodic snippets of dialogue between enthusiastic science lover Alice and her more sceptical friend Thomas.' - Network, 2002

'I have no reservations in recomnmending [it] as the ideal introductory volume for anyone wishing to learn more about philosophy of science' - Philosophers Magazine

'Amongst the many introductory books on philosophy of science this one stands out in two ways: Ladyman writes very clearly about philosophical issues and problems and he tries more than most philosophers do to explain why they deserve the attention of science students. He does an excellent job of introducing key philosophical problems to students who are unlikely to be taking other philosophy courses.' - Philosophical Books

'His approach is balanced throughout ... a success on many levels ... Particularly impressive in this book is the effortless way that Ladyman introduces the ideas of active, contemporary philosophers of science ... Few books of this kind will contain ideas as up to date.' - Mind

Spis treści

I. The Scientific Method 1. Induction and Inductivism 2. The Problem of Induction and other Problems with Inductivism 3. Falsificationism 4. Revolutions and Rationality II. Realism and Antirealism about Science 5. Scientific Realism 6. Underdetermination 7. Explanation and Inference to the Best Explanation 8. Realism about What? Glossary Bibliography

O autorze

James Ladyman is Senior Lecturer in philosophy at the University of Bristol