Rationality and Science: Can Science Explain Everything?

In this accessible introduction to a popular debate, Professor Trigg faces the issues squarely and examines how far it is possible to give reasons for trusting science. In defending a realist outlook, Trigg shows that even physical science must be given metaphysical foundations. In doing so, he explains and evaluates the views of Rorty, Wittgenstein, Quine, Putnam, and Hawking, amongst others. The limits of science and rationality are explored and the power of human reason is in the end upheld.

Introduction.

1. Science and Reason.

2. Science and Pragmatism.

3. The End of Reason.

4. Science and Naturalism.

5. A God′s–Eye View.

6. Science and Humanity.

7. Science and Society.

8. Can Science Explain Everything?.

9. The Legitimation of Science.

10. Reason and Metaphysics.

Roger Trigg is the Professor of Philosophy at the University of Warwick. He is the author of many books and articles on fundamental issues in the philosophy of science and of social science. The most recent include Understanding Social Science (1985), Ideas of Human Nature (1988), and Reality at Risk.

"A book of tremendous importance which must be commended to the widest possible readership." Regent′s Review

"A wonderful read for practicing the power of human reasoning." Choice

"Rationality and Science is tightly argued, well–written, highly accessible to the non–philosopher and compulsory reading for any scientist who wishes to explore the rational underpinnings of the scientific enterprise." Science & Christian Belief

"This is a very good book. Trigg performs an invaluable service in tackling complex questions and issues in a way which does not leave the reader struggling. More impressive still is the sheer scope of the discussion. Not only does Trigg present a clear case for his position, but he does so in a way which takes the reader on a grand tour of some of the main currents of contemporary philosophical thought." Metascience

"Philosophers of all persuasions will have a lot to learn by reading this book, not only about a philosophical programme, but also about the current debates concerning some hot philosophical issues such as the problem of consciousness, the anthropic principle and evolutionary epistemology." MIND