An Introduction to the Historiography of Science (Paperback)

Helge S. Kragh

ISBN 10: 0521389216 / ISBN 13: 9780521389211

Published by Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1989

About this Item

Paperback. This book introduces the methodological and philosophical problems with which modern history of science is concerned, offering a comprehensive and critical review through description and evaluation of significant historiographical viewpoints. Incorporating discussion of key problems in general historical writing, with examples drawn from a range of disciplines, this non-elementary introduction bridges the gap between general history and history of science. Following a review of the early development of the history of science, the theory of history as applied to science history is introduced, examining the basic problems which this generates, including problems of periodisation, ideological functions, and the conflict between diachronical and anachronical historiography. Finally, the book considers the critical use, and analysis, of historical sources, and the possibility of the experiemental reconstruction of history. Aimed primarily at students, the book's broad scope and integration of historical, philosophical and scientific matters will interest philosophers, sociologists and general historians, for whom there is no alternative introduction to the subject at this level. This volume introduces the methodological and philosophical problems with which modern history of science is concerned, and offers a comprehensive review of significant historiographical viewpoints. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9780521389211

Bibliographic Details

• Title: An Introduction to the Historiography of Science (Paperback)
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press, Cambridge
• Publication Date: 1989
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521389216
• ISBN 13: 9780521389211
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

This book introduces the methodological and philosophical problems with which modern history of science is concerned, offering a comprehensive and critical review through description and evaluation of significant historiographical viewpoints. Incorporating discussion of key problems in general historical writing, with examples drawn from a range of disciplines, this non-elementary introduction bridges the gap between general history and history of science. Following a review of the early development of the history of science, the theory of history as applied to science history is introduced, examining the basic problems which this generates, including problems of periodisation, ideological functions, and the conflict between diachronical and anachronical historiography. Finally, the book considers the critical use, and analysis, of historical sources, and the possibility of the experiemental reconstruction of history. Aimed primarily at students, the book's broad scope and integration of historical, philosophical and scientific matters will interest philosophers, sociologists and general historians, for whom there is no alternative introduction to the subject at this level.