Electronic Resource
Cambridge
:
Cambridge University Press
Science in context
10 (1997), S. 13-37
ISSN:
0269-8897
Source:
Cambridge Journals Digital Archives
Topics:
History
,
Natural Sciences in General
Notes:
The ArgumentIn this paper I argue that Kuhn's and Hanson's notion of incommensurable paradigms is rooted in the rhetoric of finality of the Copenhagen dogma — the orthodox philosophical interpretation of quantum physics. I also argue that arguments for holism of a paradigm, on which the notion of the impossibility of its gradual modification is based, misinterpret the Duhem-Quine thesis. The history of science (Copernican, Chemical, and Quantum Revolutions) demonstrates fruitful selective appropriation of ideas from seemingly “incommensurable” paradigms (rather than the impossibility of communication between their representatives). I argue in conclusion that such openness underlies scientific creativity, and that dialogue between different alternatives is indispensable for the growth of knowledge.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0269889700000247
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