Apocalypse and Paradigm: Science and Everyday Thinking

“Apocalypse and Paradigm: Science and Everyday Thinking” by Errol E. Harris, published by Holtzbrinck on February 28, 2000, explores the pervasive influence of scientific paradigms on culture and thought. This 168-page work examines how the mechanistic and atomistic views of Newtonian science have shaped various domains, including philosophy, economics, and politics, over the past three centuries. Harris argues that while the scientific revolutions introduced by Planck and Einstein have transformed scientific understanding, these changes have not yet permeated everyday thinking, leaving contemporary global challenges inadequately addressed.
Readers will find a critical analysis of the obsolescence of the Newtonian paradigm in tackling today’s pressing issues. Harris emphasizes the urgency of adopting new conceptual frameworks that reflect modern scientific advancements to effectively engage with global problems. This book is particularly relevant for students, educators, and policymakers interested in the intersections of philosophy, science, and ethics, as it encourages a reevaluation of established thought patterns in light of contemporary scientific insights.
Official synopsis Publisher
The influence of scientific paradigms is much more widespread than usually realized. According to Harris, it permeates the whole of the culture of which science is an integral part. The paradigm of Newtonian science was essentially mechanistic and atomistic, and thinking in these terms not only penetrated philosophy, economics, morals and politics for the next three centuries, but remains latent in 20th century ways of thought.
As Harris illustrates, the Newtonian paradigm is obsolete in confronting today’s global problems. While Planck and Einstein introduced a new scientific revolution at the beginning of the century, it has yet to be reflected in common habits of thinking. It is now urgently necessary to adopt the new conceptual scheme in other fields as it has come to dominate science if global issues are to be resolved. A provocative analysis that will be of particular interest to students, teachers, and policymakers involved with public policy, the history of science and philosophy, and ethics.
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