Synopses & Reviews
The first part deals with philosophies that have had a significant input, positive or negative, on the search for truth; it suggests that scientific and technological are either stimulated or smothered by a philosophical matrix; and it outlines two ontological doctrines believed to have nurtured research in modern times: systemism (not to be mistaken for holism) and materialism (as an extension of physicalism). The second part discusses a few practical problems that are being actively discussed in the literature, from climatology and information science to economics and legal philosophy. This discussion is informed by the general principles analyzed in the first part of the book. Some of the conclusions are that standard economic theory is just as inadequate as Marxism; that law and order are weak without justice; and that the central equation of normative climatology is a tautology-which of course does not put climate change in doubt. The third and final part of the book tackles a set of key concepts, such as those of
Synopsis
Preface.- Introduction.- A. How to Nuture of Hinder Research.- 1 Philosophies and phobosophies.- 2 The philosophical matrix of scientific progress.- 3 Systemics and materalism.- B. Philosophy in Action.- 4 Technoscience?.- 5 Climate and logic.- 6 Information Science: one or many?.- 7 Wealth and wellbeing.- 8 Can standard economic theory explain crises?.- 9 Marxism: Promise and reality.- 10 Rules of law: Just and unjust.- C Philosophical Gaps.- 11 Are subjective probabilities admissible? .- 12 Can induction deliver high-level hypotheses? .- 13 Bridging theory to data.- 14 Energy: physics or metaphysics? .- 15 Does quantum physics refute realism? .- 16 Parallel universes? Digital physics? .- 17 Can functionalist psychology explain?.- 18 Knowledge pyramids and rosettes.- 19 Existence: one or two?.- 20 Conclusion: Evaluation Criterion.- 21 Glossary.
Synopsis
Philosophies, whether genuine or spurious, are not usually adopted because of their conceptual, empirical, or moral merits, but because of tradition, political interests, or even temperament-none of which is a good reason. The present book argues for a precise criterion: A philosophy is worth what it helps learn, act, conserve our common heritage, and get along with fellow humans.
Synopsis
This book surveys philosophies that have had a significant positive or negative impact on the search for truth, offering systemism and materialism as research-nurturing doctrines. Covers problems under current discussion, and points out neglected topics.
Table of Contents
Preface.- Introduction.-