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A modern understanding of the world is unthinkable without science, but what exactly

is it? What does it mean to say that something is ‘scientific’? How are its results justified?        

From the genetic basis of life to the structures of the universe or the atom, this book explores how the key ideas that shape our world have been developed. It...

• gives a broad introduction to the history of science and its impact on Western thought;           

• examines scientific method, and asks what it means to call something ‘scientific’;

• introduces key philosophers and scientists.

No previous knowledge of either philosophy or science is required.

All terms are fully explained in the text.

Contents:

Introduction                                                       6. Probability and Determinism

1. The History of Science                                   7. The Philosophy of Biology

2. The Scientific Method                                     8. Science and Humankind

3. Theories, Laws and Progress                          9. Cosmology

4. Scientific Realism                                          10. Science and Authority

5. Relativism, Instrumentalism  and Relevance      The Quest for Knowledge and Control

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

This book is now

out of print, but there are plenty of used copies available on Amazon.

 

A new and revised edition is due to be published in April 2012.

 

If you are really keen, you can pre-order your copy now...