An Introduction to Science Studies
The Philosophical and Social Aspects of Science and Technology

John M. Ziman (Author)

9780521346801, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 23 July 1987

216 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.3 cm, 0.32 kg

'Ziman's book is a tour de force … It would make a fine textbook for an introductory course in a science, technology, and society program.' Science

The purpose of this book is to give a coherent account of the different perspectives on science and technology that are normally studied under various disciplinary heads such as philosophy of science, sociology of science and science policy. It is intended for students embarking on courses in these subjects and assumes no special knowledge of any science. It is written in a direct and simple style, and technical language is introduced very sparingly. As various perspectives are sketched out in this book, the reader moves towards a consistent conception of contemporary science as a rapidly changing social institution that has already grown out of its traditional forms and plays a central role in society at large. It will appeal to students in a wide range of scientific disciplines and complement well Professor Ziman's earlier books.

Preface
1. 'Academic' science
2. Research
3. Validity
4. Communication
5. Authority
6. Rules and norms
7. Change
8. The sociology of scientific knowledge
9. Science and technology
10. Pure and applied science
11. Collectivized science
12. R & D organizations
13. The economics of research
14. Science and the State
15. The scientist in society
16. Science as a cultural resource
Index.

Subject Areas: Philosophy: epistemology & theory of knowledge [HPK]