Single Idea 7068

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / G. Scientific Philosophy / 3. Scientism]

Full Idea

If what is mistaken in much contemporary philosophy is its infatuation with science, which leads to scientism, then the equally mistaken rejection of science leads to obscurantism.

Clarification

'Obscurantism' is being too obscure

Gist of Idea

If infatuation with science leads to bad scientism, its rejection leads to obscurantism

Source

Simon Critchley (Continental Philosophy - V. Short Intro [2001], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Critchley,Simon: 'Continental Philosophy - Very Short Intro' [OUP 2001], p.7


A Reaction

Clearly a balance has to be struck. I take philosophy to be a quite separate discipline from science, but it is crucial that philosophy respects the physical facts, and scientists are the experts there. Scientists are philosophers' most valued servants.