Understanding philosophy of science

Bibliographic Information

Understanding philosophy of science

James Ladyman

Routledge, 2002

  • : pbk
  • : hbk

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Note

Includes bibliographical references (p. 270-275) and index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

Few can imagine a world without telephones or televisions; many depend on computers and the Internet as part of daily life. Without scientific theory, these developments would not have been possible. In this exceptionally clear and engaging introduction to philosophy of science, James Ladyman explores the philosophical questions that arise when we reflect on the nature of the scientific method and the knowledge it produces. He discusses whether fundamental philosophical questions about knowledge and reality might be answered by science, and considers in detail the debate between realists and antirealists about the extent of scientific knowledge. Along the way, central topics in philosophy of science, such as the demarcation of science from non-science, induction, confirmation and falsification, the relationship between theory and observation and relativism are all addressed. Important and complex current debates over underdetermination, inference to the best explaination and the implications of radical theory change are clarified and clearly explained for those new to the subject.

Table of Contents

I. The Scientific Method 1. Induction and Inductivism 2. The Problem of Induction and other Problems with Inductivism 3. Falsificationism 4. Revolutions and Rationality II. Realism and Antirealism about Science 5. Scientific Realism 6. Underdetermination 7. Explanation and Inference to the Best Explanation 8. Realism about What? Glossary Bibliography

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Details

  • NCID
    BA5519557X
  • ISBN
    • 0415221579
    • 0415221560
  • LCCN
    2001048105
  • Country Code
    uk
  • Title Language Code
    eng
  • Text Language Code
    eng
  • Place of Publication
    London
  • Pages/Volumes
    xiii, 290 p.
  • Size
    24 cm
  • Classification
  • Subject Headings
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