A Social Philosophy of Science

A social philosophy of science proposes a way out of current controversies in scientific research that requires: a) acknowledging the non-independent character of the philosophy of science; b) reconsidering the epistemological status of the natural sciences as the only ideal of knowledge; c) focusing on the social sciences and the humanities in search of a new methodological experience; d) ceasing to consider case studies as a version of the 'neutral language of observation' or as a 'crucial justification' of a theory; and e) combining the explanatory power of local contextualisation with the projection and construction of future contexts of the impact of scientific ideas. The shift towards sociality does not subordinate science studies to any doctrine; it is rather an ecumenical appeal to maximise philosophical sensitivity and openness.