Rehabilitating rationality in contemporary philosophy of science

Abstract

This article explores rehabilitating rationality in contemporary philosophy of science against the background of the objectivist/rationalist positions prevalent at the end of the 19th century. Subsequent changes of position are investigated by focusing on trends discernible in writings of 20th century philosophers of science. Here, a shift from rationalism to irrationalism and from objectivism to subjectivism occurred. The ensuing clash culminated into a yet unresolved impasse in contemporary philosophy of science. It is suggested that three mind-shifts may alleviate this unsatisfactory deadlock. Firstly, a better understanding of the need for a non-reductionist notion of rationality. Secondly, acknowledgment of the creational order as locus ordinis of rationality. Thirdly, an intensified awareness of modal and entitary abstraction.