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Thomas Kuhn (1922-1996) The Copernican Revolution (1957)
In The Copernican Revolution, Thomas Kuhn examined the shift from the Ptolemaic to the Copernican model, revealing its deep impact on humanity's cosmic perspective. Published before The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, it laid the groundwork for Kuhn’s later ideas by showing that scientific revolutions involve major changes in both theory and cultural context. Kuhn, Thomas S. The Copernican Revolution: Planetary Astronomy in the Development of Western Thought. Harvard University Press, 1957. -
Thomas Kuhn (1922-1996) The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (1962)
Thomas Kuhn's concept of "paradigm shifts," introduced in The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, posits that scientific progress occurs through sudden, transformative changes in paradigms rather than gradual evolution. When existing paradigms fail to address anomalies, a revolutionary shift brings a new framework, emphasizing the role of consensus and historical context in scientific development.
Kuhn, Thomas S. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. University of Chicago Press, 1962. -
Thomas Kuhn (1922-1996) Normal Science (1962)
In The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (1962), Thomas Kuhn defined "normal science" as routine research within an accepted paradigm. He argued that scientific revolutions happen when anomalies challenge the paradigm, shifting scientific progress from a purely objective process to one shaped by historical and social factors. Kuhn’s ideas have deeply influenced how scientific knowledge evolves. Kuhn, Thomas S. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. University of Chicago Press, 1962. -
Thomas Kuhn (1922-1996) Reflections on my Critics (1974)
In "Reflections on My Critics," Thomas Kuhn addressed critiques of his theories on paradigm shifts and scientific revolutions, published in The Journal of Philosophy. This response clarified and refined his ideas, highlighting the role of scientific communities and the evolving nature of his theories. It underscored the ongoing debate and dynamic nature of Kuhn’s work. Kuhn, Thomas S. "Reflections on my Critics." The Journal of Philosophy, vol. 71, no. 6, 1974, pp. 153-163. -
Paul Feyerabend (1924-1994) Against Method (1975)
In Against Method, Paul Feyerabend critiques the idea of a universal scientific method, arguing that no single approach guarantees progress. He contends that science is more chaotic and unpredictable, advocating for a pluralistic view where diverse methods and theories coexist. His work suggests that rigid adherence to methodological rules can actually impede scientific advancement.
Feyerabend, Paul. Against Method. Verso, 1975. -
Paul Feyerabend (1924-1994) Epistemological Anarchism (1975)
In Against Method (1975), Paul Feyerabend introduced "epistemological anarchism," arguing against a universal scientific method. He claimed that scientific progress occurs through diverse and often unpredictable methods, and that strict adherence to a single methodology can hinder creativity and advancement. Feyerabend’s stance highlights the value of methodological diversity in scientific inquiry. Feyerabend, Paul. Against Method. Verso, 1975. -
Paul Feyerabend (1924-1994) Science in a Free Society (1980)
In Science in a Free Society (1980), Paul Feyerabend critiqued scientific authority and its role in public policy, arguing that science should be free from institutional constraints. He advocated for a plurality of views and approaches, challenging the idea that science should dictate societal values and truths. Feyerabend, Paul. Science in a Free Society. Verso, 1980. -
Paul Feyerabend (1924-1994) Farewell to Reason (1987)
In Farewell to Reason (1987), Paul Feyerabend challenges the idea that reason and logic are the only paths to knowledge. He argues that reason often justifies dominant theories while ignoring alternative perspectives. Feyerabend advocates for a pluralistic approach to knowledge, valuing diverse ways of understanding the world and emphasizing that science is not the sole means of acquiring knowledge. Feyerabend, Paul. Farewell to Reason. Verso, 1987.