Experiment, Theory, Practice: Articles and Addresses (Boston Studies in the Philosophy of Science) (Volume 46)

Kapitza, PL

ISBN 10: 9027710619 / ISBN 13: 9789027710611

Published by D Reidel, 1980

About this Item

Volume 46. This is an ex-library book and may have the usual library/used-book markings inside.This book has hardback covers. Clean from markings. In fair condition, suitable as a study copy. No dust jacket. Re-bound by library. Please note the Image in this listing is a stock photo and may not match the covers of the actual item,800grams, ISBN:9027710619.

Seller Inventory # 7068608

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Experiment, Theory, Practice: Articles and Addresses (Boston Studies in the Philosophy of Science) (Volume 46)
• Publisher: D Reidel
• Publication Date: 1980
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 9027710619
• ISBN 13: 9789027710611
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Fair
• Weight: 800 grams
• Seller catalogs:
  • Philosophy

About this title

Synopsis

In tbis splendid collection of the articles and addresses of P. L. Kapitza, the author remarks on the insight of the 18th century Ukrainian philosopher Skovoroda who wrote: "We must be grateful to God that He created the world in such a way that everytbing simple is true, and everything compli­ cated is untrue. " At another place, Kapitza meditates on the roles played by instinct, imagination, audacity, experiment, and hard work in the develop­ ment of science, and for a moment seems to despair at understanding the dogged arguments of great scientists: "Einstein loved to refer to God when there was no more sensible argument!" With Academician Kapitza, there are reasoned arguments, plausible alter­ natives, humor and humane discipline, energy and patience, a skill for the practical, and transcendent clarity about what is at issue in theoretical practice as in engineering necessities. Kapitza has been physicist, engineer, research manager, teacher, humanist, and tbis book demonstrates that he is a wise interpreter of historical, philosophical, and social realities. He is also, in C. P. Snow's words, strong, brave, and good (Variety of Men, N. Y. 1966, p. 19). In this preface, we shall point to themes from Kapitza's interpretations of science and life. On scientific work. Good work is never done with someone else's hands. The separation of theory from experience, from experimental work, and from practice, above all harms theory itself.