Realism for Realistic People
A New Pragmatist Philosophy of Science

A new pragmatist philosophy of science that conceives truth and reality as operational ideals achievable in actual scientific practice.

Hasok Chang (Author)

9781108470384, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 13 October 2022

296 pages
23.5 x 15.8 x 2.1 cm, 0.58 kg

'The wonderfully subversive vision of Realism for Realistic People may very well irritate those already invested in the traditional philosophical apparatus. However, I would propose that this book is not written for them. Instead, the book functions better as an example for those searching for a diverse and substantively pluralistic community that sees a common humanistic basis as a major part and promise of pursuing the scientific attitude and contributing to its impact on human well-being. For those seeking inspiration, the welcoming landscape of Chang's new pragmatist philosophy will surely provide new winds for new sails.' Daniel S. Brooks, Journal for General Philosophy of Science

In this innovative book, Hasok Chang constructs a philosophy of science for 'realistic people' interested in understanding and promoting the actual practices of inquiry in science and other knowledge-focused areas of life. Inspired by pragmatist philosophy, he reconceives the very notions of reality and truth on the basis of his concept of the 'operational coherence' of epistemic activities, and offers new pragmatist conceptions of truth and reality as operational ideals achievable in actual scientific practice. Rejecting the version of scientific realism that is concerned with claiming that our theories correspond to an ultimate reality, he proposes instead an 'activist realism': a commitment to do all that we can actually do to improve our knowledge of realities. His book will appeal to scholars and students in philosophy, science and the history of science, and all who are concerned about the place of science and empirical truth in society.

Introduction
1. Active Knowledge
2. Correspondence
3. Reality
4. Truth
5. Realism
Closing Remarks.

Subject Areas: Philosophy of science [PDA]