The Evolution of Natural Scientists and Their Theories

Abstract

Evidence for the special success of science can be seen everywhere: in the automobiles we drive, the television we view, the increase in life expectancy, and the fact that man has walked on the moon. We may question the values, or lack thereof, of science, but surely science has been singularly successful in many of the enterprises which it has attempted. It is therefore a little surprising that what constitutes meaningful scientific work is one of the most hotly debated issues of our time. The nature of scientific process and method, the aims or goals of science, the nature and objectivity of scientific knowledge—all are controversial. Still, there is much agreement. This chapter discusses the controversy and attempts to find points of agreement.