The Knowledge Machine

How an Unreasonable Idea Created Modern Science
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( 821 ratings, 131 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In The Knowledge Machine, Michael Strevens explores how modern science succeeded by embracing certain irrational and artificial rules, which he calls the "Iron Rule of Explanation." This rule compels scientists to focus solely on empirical evidence, often at the expense of broader thinking. The book delves into how this narrow focus powers scientific discovery and gives nuanced insights into the understanding and limitations of science today.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you are intrigued by the mysteries of scientific processes and wish to explore the idea of how science, despite its complexities and occasional irrationalities, remains the most effective system for acquiring knowledge. It offers a fascinating look into how science's unique method of fact-finding allows for extraordinary breakthroughs in understanding our universe.

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The Knowledge Machine

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Rich with tales of discovery from Galileo to general relativity, a stimulating and timely analysis of how science works and why we need it.

It is only in the last three centuries that the formidable knowledge-making machine we call modern science has transformed our way of life and our vision of the universe—two thousand years after the invention of law, philosophy, drama and mathematics. Why did we take so long to invent science? And how has it proved to be so powerful?

The Knowledge Machine gives a radical answer, exploring how science calls on its practitioners to do something apparently irrational—strip away all previous knowledge, such as theological, metaphysical or political beliefs—and channel unprecedented energy into observation and experiment. In times of climate extremes, novel diseases and rapidly advancing technology, Strevens contends that we need more than ever to grasp the inner workings of our knowledge machine.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Knowledge Machine by Michael Strevens presents a compelling exploration of the scientific method. Reviews highlight its elegance, accessibility, and engaging narrative, making complex scientific concepts understandable and entertaining. The book is praised for its bold conception, rich storytelling, and insightful analysis, appealing to both experts and lay readers alike.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141981260

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 February 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 270g

Pages: 368

About the Author

Michael Strevens is a professor of philosophy at New York University, and the recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2017. He was born in New Zealand and has been writing about the philosophy of science for twenty-five years. He lives in New York.

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