Instrumental Realism
The Interface Between Philosophy of Science and Philosophy of Technology

Don Ihde (Author)

9780253206268

Paperback / softback, published 22 May 1991

176 pages
23.3 x 17.9 x 1 cm, 0.308 kg

"Ihde is perhaps uniquely situated to provide authoritative accounts of such diverse philosophical traditions as those involved in current explorations of the technology of scientific instruments. . . . Ihde's book breaks new ground and . . . makes an important debate accessible." —Robert Ackermann
Instrumental Realism has three principal aims: to advocate a "praxis-perception" approach to the philosophy of science; to explore ways in which such an approach offers a mutually illuminating overlap with a philosophy of technology; and to examine comparatively and critically the work of some who advocate an "instrumental realist" approach to the philosophy of science.

Preface
Part One: Philosophy of Science Read through Philosophy of Technology
I. Introduction: Philosophers and Technology
II. The New Philosophy of Science
III. Philosophy of Technology
Part Two: The Instrument as Interface
IV. The Embodiment of Science in Technology
A. The "Body-Philosophers"
B. The "Mind-Philosopher" Tradition
C. Instruments as Interface
V. Instrumental Realism
VI. The Experiment
Epilogue: Philosophy of Technology beyond Philosophy of Science
Notes
Index