In "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions," Thomas S. Kuhn challenges the traditional view of scientific progress, arguing that it unfolds not through a linear accumulation of knowledge but via transformative paradigm shifts. He illustrates how revolutions in thought disrupt the established scientific order, forever altering the way we understand the world. Kuhn's compelling concept of "normal science" is juxtaposed with revolutionary breakthroughs that redefine entire fields. This thought-provoking exploration raises essential questions about the nature of truth and the progress of human knowledge. Discover how scientific advancements are less about discovery and more about evolution in thought, sparking curiosity about what radical shifts lie ahead.
By Thomas S. Kuhn
Published: 2012
"Scientific progress is not a gradual and cumulative process but rather a series of peaceful interludes punctuated by intellectually violent revolutions."
“One of the most influential books of the 20th century,” the landmark study in the history of science with a new introduction by philosopher Ian Hacking (Guardian, UK). First published in 1962, Thomas Kuhn’s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions ”reshaped our understanding of the scientific enterprise and human inquiry in general.” In it, he challenged long-standing assumptions about scientific progress, arguing that transformative ideas don’t arise from the gradual process of experimentation and data accumulation, but instead occur outside of “normal science.” Though Kuhn was writing when physics ruled the sciences, his ideas on how scientific revolutions bring order to the anomalies that amass over time in research experiments are still instructive in today’s biotech age (Science). This new edition of Kuhn’s essential work includes an insightful introduction by Ian Hacking, which clarifies terms popularized by Kuhn, including “paradigm” and “incommensurability,” and applies Kuhn’s ideas to the science of today. Usefully keyed to the separate sections of the book, Hacking’s introduction provides important background information as well as a contemporary context. This newly designed edition also includes an expanded and updated index.
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“Scientific progress is not a gradual and cumulative process but rather a series of peaceful interludes punctuated by intellectually violent revolutions.”
The Structure of Scientific Revolutions
By Thomas S. Kuhn
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Thomas S. Kuhn was a prominent American physicist and philosopher of science, best known for his influential book, "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions," published in 1962. In this work, Kuhn introduced the concept of "paradigm shifts," which describes how scientific progress occurs through revolutionary changes in prevailing theories rather than through a linear accumulation of knowledge. His ideas challenged the traditional views of scientific development and emphasized the social and historical context of scientific practice. Kuhn's contributions have had a lasting impact on the philosophy of science, shaping the way scholars and scientists understand the evolution of knowledge. He served as a professor at institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, and his legacy continues to influence discussions on the nature of scientific inquiry and progress.
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