Discover this podcast and so much more

Podcasts are free to enjoy without a subscription. We also offer ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more for just $11.99/month.

The Knowledge Machine with Michael Strevens

The Knowledge Machine with Michael Strevens

FromPlease Expand


The Knowledge Machine with Michael Strevens

FromPlease Expand

ratings:
Length:
100 minutes
Released:
Dec 5, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode

Description

I talk with Michael Strevens about the scientific enterprise. Does science get at objective truth or is it limited by subjective world-views? We begin by discussing the roles of Kuhn and Popper in the "Great Method Debate", before going on to discuss developments in the sociology of science, by figures such as Bruno Latour, who showed that there is actually quite a bit of subjectivity in everyday scientific activities. We then go on to discuss Michael's contribution to this debate and we examine the "Iron Rule of Explanation". We look at the constellation of ideas that buttress the Iron Rule of Explanation and examine their suitability to the scientific enterprise. Finally, we consider the role that beauty can play in science.
Released:
Dec 5, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode

Titles in the series (14)

Please Expand is a podcast where I discuss non-fiction books with their authors. But Please Expand is not just about summaries; it's about conversations. I go into every episode having read each book in great detail and having reflected on the fundamental assumptions, foundations and questions with which the book grapples. If you, like me, have finished a book with burning questions that only the author could answer, then Please Expand is the podcast for you. Pick up one of the books I'm discussing and settle in for what I hope will be an illuminating conversation.