The Knowledge Machine: How Irrationality Created Modern Science

By Michael Strevens

In his groundbreaking book, The Knowledge Machine, Michael Strevens argues that the scientific method is not as rational as we think. In fact, he says, it is often irrationality that drives scientific progress.

Strevens begins by showing how the scientific method is often based on hunches and guesses. Scientists don't always have all the evidence they need before they start experimenting. They often have to rely on their intuition and imagination to come up with new ideas.

The Knowledge Machine: How Irrationality Created Modern Science

by Michael Strevens

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	29552 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	368 pages

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Once scientists have come up with a new idea, they need to test it. But testing a new idea can be difficult and time-consuming. Scientists often have to overcome obstacles and setbacks before they can finally prove their hypothesis.

Even when scientists have proven their hypothesis, they still need to convince other scientists that their findings are valid. This can be a difficult process, especially if the new findings challenge existing beliefs.

Despite all of these challenges, the scientific method has been remarkably successful. It has led to the development of new technologies, new medicines, and new ways of understanding the world around us.

So how is it that the scientific method can be so successful, even though it is often based on irrationality? Strevens argues that it is because the scientific method is a self-correcting process. When scientists make mistakes, they can learn from their mistakes and improve their methods.

The scientific method is also a collaborative process. Scientists share their ideas with each other and work together to test and refine those ideas. This collaboration helps to ensure that the scientific method is constantly improving.

Strevens's book is a fascinating and thought-provoking look at the scientific method. He shows how the scientific method is not a perfect system, but it is the best system we have for generating new knowledge.

Praise for The Knowledge Machine

"A brilliant and original book that challenges our traditional understanding of science." —Steven Pinker

"A must-read for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of science." —Sean Carroll

"A groundbreaking work that will change the way we think about science." —The New York Times

About the Author

Michael Strevens is a professor of philosophy at the University of California, Berkeley. He is the author of several books on the philosophy of science, including Science as a Process and The Knowledge Machine.

The Knowledge Machine: How Irrationality Created Modern Science

by Michael Strevens

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	29552 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	368 pages

FREE