The Problem of Scientific Method in the Postnonclassical Epistemology

Abstract

Postnonclassical direction of the philosophy and methodology of science emerged in the second half of XX century. It differs from both classical (17-19 v.), as well as from non-classical (postpositivism) epistemology and refuses to consider the contradiction between empiricism and theory mainly, and even more so, the only factor in the functioning and dynamics of scientific knowledge. Its members believe that an adequate model of the dynamics of science must take into account a significant impact on the process of scientific knowledge is not only the object of research, but also a number of social factors. These are: 1) the selection of the scientific community of the certain scientific problems as the current or most relevant, 2) the actual conditions of the process of scientific knowledge (physical, organizational, socio-cultural, psychological, etc.), 3) the selection and acceptance of the subject of scientific knowledge in a situation of uncertainty of a decision of the investigated problem and others. Proponents of postnonclassical epistemology reject models subject less or transcendental-subjective nature of scientific knowledge of the process, insisting on the significant influence of certain empirical subjects of scientific knowledge (of their creative potential, outlook, psychological characteristics, the amount of knowledge) on their choice as the specific methods of constructing knowledge, and the ways of its study. They believe that the construction of an adequate theory of scientific activity it is essential to take into account the fact that scientific knowledge is made by scientists in a specific socio-cultural environment. Because of this, the subjects of scientific knowledge always feel the influence of not only specific scientific tradition, schools, scientific authorities in their field, but also in mainstream society, social values and philosophical principles. This article analyzes the three major paradigms postnonclassical epistemology: 1) cognitive sociology of science; 2) cultural-historical analysis of scientific knowledge; 3) humanitarian paradigm.