-
"Against Method"
Feyerabend first famous critique of the scientific method and the theory of falsification. He thought scientists were restricting themselves to “simple minded rules” that hinder the truths and the beliefs that there are multiple methods in which science can be produced using Galileo as an example (Kidd). YouTube video on Against Method: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85pzjUvBZSI -
Consistency Criterion
Feyerabend insisted that new theories cannot be “consistent” with previous theories otherwise it gives the former theory an advantage due to aesthetic reasons (Encyclopedia). A theory does not need to agree with the former known theory to be considered valid. -
The Tower Argument
Feyerabend’s objection to the theory of moving Earth. Feyerabend descibed how Galileo used ‘ad hoc’ methods to prove that a stone dropped from a tower will not be left behind with the Earth’s rotation. Using ‘ad hoc methods’ he showed that it is possible to “temporarily make a new theory compatible with facts until the theory to be defended can be supported by other theories” (Encyclopedia). -
"Farewell To Reason"
The last follow up book of Feyerabend’s opinions about the scientific methods. Outlined the 13 different versions in defense of relativism (Kidd). He takes a strong stance against the “academic notions of truth and fact” (Frey). Claimed that the Western conceptions of reality prevented creativity and diversity (Frey).