Scientific Controversies

Philosophical and Historical Perspectives

Aristides Baltas editor Peter Machamer editor Marcello Pera editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oxford University Press Inc

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Scientific Controversies cover

Traditionally it has been thought that scientific controversies can always be resolved on the basis of empirical data. Recently, however, social constructionists have claimed that the outcome of scientific debates is strongly influenced by non-evidential factors such as the rhetorical prowess and professional clout of the participants. This volume of previously unpublished essays by well-known philosophers of science presents historical studies and philosophical analyses that undermine the plausibility of an extreme social constructionist perspective while also indicating the need for a richer and more realistic account of scientific rationality.

A paperback edition of this book would make a rather good textbook on scientific controversies. Peter Machamer's opening chapter is a model of didactic clarity. * The British Journal for the History of Science *

ISBN: 9780195119879

Dimensions: 161mm x 235mm x 24mm

Weight: 644g

288 pages