E-Book Overview
Social constructivists maintain that we invent the properties of the world rather than discover them. Is reality constructed by our own activity? Or, more provocatively, are scientific factsis everythingconstructed? Social Constructivism and the Philosophy of Science is a clear assessment of this critical and increasingly important debate. Andre Kukla presents a comprehensive discussion of the philosophical issues involved and analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of a range of constructivist arguments, illustrating the divide between the sociology and the philosophy of science through examples as varied as laboratory science, time, and criminality. He argues that current philosophical objections to constructivism are drastically inconclusive, while offering and developing new objections. Throughout, Kukla distinguishes between the social causes of scientific beliefs and the view that all ascertainable facts are constructed.
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Social Constructivism and the Philosophy of Science ‘Kukla’s robust critique is thoroughly researched, carefully argued and a pleasure to read. It will be essential reading for anyone interested in the various forms of constructivism that are so prevalent in contemporary science studies.’ James Ladyman, Bristol University ‘This is a fine book. It describes the lay of the land in remarkably clear and concise terms, and it deals with the principal issues in an exemplary and persuasive way…a welcome addition to a hot topic.’ James Robert Brown, University of Toronto Social constructivists maintain that we invent the properties of the world rather than discover them. Is reality constructed by our own activity? Or, more provocatively, are scientific facts constructed? Is everything constructed? André Kukla presents a comprehensive discussion of the philosophical issues that arise out of this controversial debate, analysing the various