Introduction to the Philosophy of Science

A survey of the philosophy of science from positivism to social constructivism, focusing on the ontological implications of science. Klee investigates feminist and nonfeminist concepts of science as well as social constructivist models, and uses immunology as a source of descriptive examples. A survey of the philosophy of science from positivism to social constructivism, this book focuses on the ontological implications of science. An innovative feature is the author's use of immunology as a source of descriptive examples, thus providing lively illustrations from a life science with universal appeal and allowing continuity throughout this volume. The coverage of Quinean holism and supervenience clarify concepts which have been often misunderstood, while the discussion of the Kuhnian model of science rectifies the distortions it underwent due to misuse in the past. Feminist and nonfeminist concepts of science, as well as social constructivist models are thoroughly investigated by Klee. The text includes a glossary defining over eighty key terms.