![[Search]](/static/images/search.gif){kind=small}
![[A-Z Index]](/static/images/az.gif){kind=small}
![[Contact]](/static/images/contact.gif){kind=small}
![[University of Cambridge]](/static/images/identifier2.gif){kind=small}
![[Talks.cam]](/static/images/talkslogosmall.gif)
Hasok Chang (University College London)
Thursday 20 November 2008, 16:30-18:00
Phlogiston revisited: an argument for scientific pluralism
- đ¤ Speaker: Hasok Chang (University College London)
- đ Date & Time: Thursday 20 November 2008, 16:30 - 18:00
- đ Venue: Seminar Room 2, History and Philosophy of Science, Department of
Questions? Contact
Lauren Kassell
Abstract
Through a re-examination of the Chemical Revolution, I advance an argument for pluralism in and about science. My assessment of the Chemical Revolution, made on the basis of a comprehensive list of epistemic values, returns the verdict that there was no compelling rational reason for 18th-century chemists to discard the phlogiston theory. I then examine the benefits that could have (or could still) come from retaining or reviving phlogiston. Finally I sketch some general arguments for scientific pluralism, drawing a comparison and contrast with relativism.
Series This talk is part of the Departmental Seminars in History and Philosophy of Science series.
Included in Lists
- All Talks (aka the CURE list)
- Cambridge talks
- Departmental Seminars in History and Philosophy of Science
- Department of History and Philosophy of Science
- Featured lists
- hc446
- History and Philosophy of Science long list
- jer64's list
- List 1
- Philosophy Events
- Seminar Room 2, History and Philosophy of Science, Department of
- Trust & Technology Initiative - interesting events
- yk449
Note: Ex-directory lists are not shown.