Introduction to the Philosophy of Science Review

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(More customer reviews)This book gives good, clear coverage of the mayor areas in the philosophy of science and diversity of the viewpoints within those areas without suggesting that they are equally accepted. It cannot be faulted for being sparse since it is an introductory book, but an introductory textbook should not be a dead end. The lack of an index and a robust set of recommended readings is frustrating if one wants to use this text as basic reference and a springboard to the important literature in the field. This book should only be worth about $20 especially since it is paperback. The price asked is likely due to the publisher taking advantage of the demand induced by university instructors when they list this as a required textbook.

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The book presents an anthology of readings on thephilosophy of science covering traditional issues, such as explanation,confirmation, and progress against a backdrop of historical case studies. Discusses the feminist philosophy of science to presenta different perspective on the subject and chapters on medicine andpsychology (dreaming) present applications of philosophy and science.

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Theory of Knowledge (Prentice-Hall Foundations of Philosophy Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)Roderick Chisholm's "Theory of Knowledge" covers the nature of knowledge, evidence, reason, perception and truth, among other topics in epistemology. The book is therefore quite comprehensive, without sacrificing too much depth.
The book is very well organised and written with the clarity for which Chisholm was legendary. It is rigorous, but not boring. Chisholm illuminates his discussion with many interesting examples drawn from other areas of philosophy, showing the relevance of epistemology to these areas.
Chisholm is influenced by Thomas Reid in many respects. However, he does not consider the problem of scepticism as seriously as does Reid; in my opinion, a major lacuna in the book is the absence of an extensive discussion of the problem of scepticism. The book (or, at least, my edition of it) was also written some time ago, and is not up to date with some recent developments in epistemology. However, Amazon.com seems to be offering a later edition of the book, which has been updated.
Roderick Chisholm was among the greatest philosophers and teachers of his generation, and this little book introduced a generation to epistemology or the theory of knowledge. It remains an excellent introduction to epistemology and a rich source of knowledge. Some, however, have claimed that this book is difficult for those without some previous exposure to analytic philosophy.

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Scientific Revolutions: Primary Texts in the History of Science (v. 1) Review

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(More customer reviews)The book is a careful and chronologically organized selection of the primary texts in the history of the natural sciences. It is an excellent reader for history of science courses. Some of the texts that focus on experimental side and on invention of novel devices and techniques are of particular interest as they give a flavour of how experimental sciences were actually being made.
One of the merits of the book is that the collection includes texts, which vividly portrait the way a discovery has been made, e. g. Mendeleev's periodic table.
The introductory notes and recommended readings are useful. The book is well produced and well illustrated.

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Covering physics, astronomy, chemistry, the various branches of biology, and geology, this book is the perfect introduction to the history of science. A compilation of interesting readings, Scientific Revolutions reflects the richness and diversity of scientific culture and practice. Its primary focus is on the extraordinary bursts of scientific activity that propel science in new and different directions. Useful as a reference work for readers interested in the sciences.

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