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Doctoral Studies at the University of London
Paul Feyerabend pursued his doctoral studies at the University of London, culminating in his dissertation titled "On the Interpretation of Scientific Theories." This work laid the groundwork for his later critiques of scientific methodology by questioning traditional empiricist views in the philosophy of science. Feyerabend argued that scientific theories cannot be justified only through empirical evidence and advocated for a more diverse approach to scientific methodology. -
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Feyerabend's Critique of Thomas Kuhn's "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions"
Feyerabend critiqued Thomas Kuhn's seminal work "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions." Feyerabend's critique challenged Kuhn's characterization of scientific progress and the notion of paradigm shifts. While Feyerabend thought Kuhn had some good points, he believed Kuhn's view was too simple. Feyerabend said that science doesn't just go through big changes like Kuhn suggested. Instead, he thought that science is always changing in many different ways. -
Publication of "Against Method"
Feyerabend's most famous work, Against Method. In this book, he launched an attack on the idea of a universal scientific method. Feyerabend argued that scientific progress is not linear and that there are no fixed rules that scientists must follow. Instead, he advocated for an anarchistic approach to science, where multiple methodologies and perspectives are embraced. against Method shook up the traditional thinking in the philosophy of science and still sparks debates today. -
Publication of "Science in a Free Society"
Feyerabend further developed his ideas on the philosophy of science and the role of science in society. He argued against the notion of science as a rigid or singular institution. Feyerabend's work in this book influenced discussions on the relationship between science, politics, and culture. -
Professor at ETH Zurich
In 1987, Paul Feyerabend was appointed as a professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich), where he continued to challenge conventional views on science and methodology.