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Early life in Austria & Europe
Born in Vienna; has problems in school, but in high school reputed to know more about math & physics than teachers; after high school, drafted into Nazi work service & then army as World War II breaks out; learns of mother’s suicide; receives Iron Cross & advances to lieutenant; badly injured during Germany’s retreat from Russia as war ends; as a result walks with a cane & is impotent for life. -
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Postwar period & higher education
In postwar Germany and Vienna, cycles through singing, history, sociology, physics; eventually gets doctorate in philosophy; meets stellar Austrian-British philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. Marries for first time. -
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Early academic work
Studies and/or works in England & a bit in Vienna. Meets Karl Popper, is impressed by his theories on falsifiability. Delves into quantum physics, with interest in philosopher Herbert Fiegl, Wittgenstein & American theoretical physicist David Bohm. Married for second time. -
At UC Berkeley
Goes to University of California, Berkeley. Introduces concept of incommensurability. By 1965, still supports Popper’s views. -
Major changes of direction
In tiny article “Science Without Experience” finally gives up empiricism (with its emphasis on experience). By 1970, has attacked Popper’s views. -
High point of his influence begins
His most famous book “Against Method” (dedicated to his friend Imre Lakatos) argues for “anarchism” in belief (epistemology) & says there is no such thing as “the scientific method.” Advocates relative, not absolute, truth. Endorses “all traditions given equal rights” & criticizes “dogmatic” attitudes & “progress.” In ’84 publishes “Science as an Art,” again promoting relativism. His 1987 book “Farewell to Reason” argues against rationalism. -
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Later life
Marries again, resigns from Berkeley, returns to Europe. Shows signs of waffling on relativism but still abhors absolute truth or objectivism. In 1993 hospitalized with inoperable brain tumor. In 1994 dies in Switzerland. -
Feyerabend remembered
Autobiography “Killing Time,” written just prior to death, is published. Major philosophical meetings on his work held over the next two years. Here's a nice Youtube video about him:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUtzWMh1fro