Stances and paradigms : a reflection

Document Type

Journal article

Source Publication

Synthese

Publication Date

1-1-2011

Volume

178

Issue

1

First Page

111

Last Page

119

Keywords

Stances, Paradigms, Normal science, Extraordinary science, Kuhn, van Fraassen

Abstract

This paper compares and contrasts the concept of a stance with that of a paradigm qua disciplinary matrix, in an attempt to illuminate both notions. First, it considers to what extent it is appropriate to draw an analogy between stances (which operate at the level of the individual) and disciplinary matrices (which operate at the level of the community). It suggests that despite first appearances, a disciplinary matrix is not simply a stance writ large. Second, it examines how we might reinterpret disciplinary matrices in terms of stances, and shows how doing so can provide us with a better insight into non-revolutionary science. Finally, it identifies two directions for future research: “Can the rationality of scientific revolutions be understood in terms of the dynamic between stances and paradigms?” and “Do stances help us to understand incommensurability between disciplinary matrices?”

DOI

10.1007/s11229-009-9524-x

Print ISSN

00397857

E-ISSN

15730964

Publisher Statement

Copyright © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2009

Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.

Full-text Version

Publisher’s Version

Language

English

Recommended Citation

Rowbottom, D. P. (2011). Stances and paradigms: A reflection. Synthese, 178(1), 111-119. doi: 10.1007/s11229-009-9524-x

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