Scientific Controversies: Philosophical and Historical Perspectives

Peter Machamer, Marcello Pera, Aristides Baltas (Editors)

ISBN 10: 0195119878 / ISBN 13: 9780195119879

Published by Oxford University Press, New York, 2000

About this Item

2000. Hardcover. Good. Dust Jacket. Minor staining along edge of pages. Personal inscription by editor on flyleaf. Interior is clean and unmarked. DJ is Very Good with no tearing or blemishes. 278p.

Seller Inventory # 10999

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Scientific Controversies: Philosophical and Historical Perspectives
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, New York
• Publication Date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0195119878
• ISBN 13: 9780195119879
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good
• Signed: Signed by Author(s)
• Seller catalogs:
  • General Science

About this title

Synopsis

Traditionally it has been thought that scientific controversies can always be resolved on the basis of empirical data. Recently, however, social constructionists have claimed that the outcome of scientific debates is strongly influenced by non-evidential factors such as the rhetorical prowess and professional clout of the participants. This volume of previously unpublished essays by well-known philosophers of science presents historical studies and philosophical analyses that undermine the plausibility of an extreme social constructionist perspective while also indicating the need for a richer and more realistic account of scientific rationality.

Review

A paperback edition of this book would make a rather good textbook on scientific controversies. Peter Machamer's opening chapter is a model of didactic clarity. (The British Journal for the History of Science)