An Introduction to the Historiography of Science

by Helge S. Kragh

• ISBN13: 9780521389211
• ISBN10: 0521389216
• Edition: Reprint
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1989-11-24
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

This book introduces the methodological and philosophical problems with which modern history of science is concerned, offering a comprehensive and critical review through description and evaluation of significant historiographical viewpoints. Incorporating discussion of key problems in general historical writing, with examples drawn from a range of disciplines, this non-elementary introduction bridges the gap between general history and history of science. Following a review of the early development of the history of science, the theory of history as applied to science history is introduced, examining the basic problems which this generates, including problems of periodisation, ideological functions, and the conflict between diachronical and anachronical historiography. Finally, the book considers the critical use, and analysis, of historical sources, and the possibility of the experiemental reconstruction of history. Aimed primarily at students, the book's broad scope and integration of historical, philosophical and scientific matters will interest philosophers, sociologists and general historians, for whom there is no alternative introduction to the subject at this level.

Table of Contents

Preface

1. Aspects of the development of the history of science

2. History of science

3. Objectives and justification

4. Elements of theory of history

5. Objectivity in history

6. Explanations

7. Hypothetical history

8. Structure and organization

9. Anachronical and diachronical history of science

10. Ideology and myths in the history of science

11. Sources

12. Evaluation of source materials

13. Scientists' histories

14. Experimental history of science

15. The biographical approach

16. Prosopography

17. Scientometric historiography

Notes

Bibliography

Index.