Science Knowledge and Sociological Theory

Author: (English) Barry Barnes, translated by Lu Xudong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-12-01
Features: The research in this book may provide something of general significance here. By practically reflecting on these scientific beliefs and examining how the real may constrain these beliefs, I will demonstrate that there is no need to limit the scope of sociology of knowledge. Some important principles of work in this field in recent years apply not only to natural sciences but also to other aspects; principles that do not apply to science are not applicable in any case within this field and hold no standing. In this book, Professor Barnes' perspective goes against the grain, attempting to bring science down from this modern altar. Unlike other works on science, this book does not focus on the organization and distribution of scientific knowledge but on its form and content. The purpose of this book is to explore the variability of knowledge and how people maintain and change it. Since the 19th century, especially the 20th, science has achieved dazzlingly great accomplishments, leading many to develop a sense of reverence or even worship for it, viewing scientific knowledge as humanity's highest achievement, eternal truth, and a model for other disciplines. Professor Barry Barnes, one of the representatives of the Edinburgh School, presents an opposing viewpoint from a sociological perspective. The author argues that scientific knowledge is merely a theoretical knowledge derived from theory rather than entirely from experience. Like other forms of knowledge, scientific knowledge is also a belief and is influenced and constrained by social factors such as environment and culture. No belief about nature is uniquely rational or the sole truth. Consistency with experience, coherence, logic, and validity cannot distinguish science from other forms of knowledge. In this sense, scientific knowledge does not hold a superior position compared to other knowledge. This book is one of the classic works of the sociology of knowledge Edinburgh School.