Understanding Philosophy of Science
1st Edition
Published on 20. December 2001
Book
Paperback/Softback
304 pages
978-0-415-22157-3 (ISBN)
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.
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.
Reviews / Votes
'An excellent introduction to philosophy of science that can be recommended as a starting point to the general reader... The writing is exceptionally clear and the text is enlivened by periodic snippets of dialogue between enthusiastic science lover Alice and her more sceptical friend Thomas.' - Network, 2002'I have no reservations in recomnmending [it] as the ideal introductory volume for anyone wishing to learn more about philosophy of science' - Philosophers Magazine
'Amongst the many introductory books on philosophy of science this one stands out in two ways: Ladyman writes very clearly about philosophical issues and problems and he tries more than most philosophers do to explain why they deserve the attention of science students. He does an excellent job of introducing key philosophical problems to students who are unlikely to be taking other philosophy courses.' - Philosophical Books
'His approach is balanced throughout ... a success on many levels ... Particularly impressive in this book is the effortless way that Ladyman introduces the ideas of active, contemporary philosophers of science ... Few books of this kind will contain ideas as up to date.' - Mind
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Target group
College/higher education
Undergraduate
Dimensions
Height: 234 mm
Width: 156 mm
Thickness: 17 mm
Weight
468 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-415-22157-3 (9780415221573)
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Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
James Ladyman
Understanding Philosophy of Science
E-Book
08/2012
1st Edition
Routledge
€53.99
Available for download
James Ladyman
Understanding Philosophy of Science
E-Book
08/2012
1st Edition
Routledge
€53.99
Available for download
James Ladyman
Understanding Philosophy of Science
Book
12/2001
1st Edition
Routledge
€206.80
Shipment within 15-20 days
Person
James Ladyman is Senior Lecturer in philosophy at the University of Bristol
Content
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