Thomas Kuhn

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Helpful, concise and original introduction to Thomas Kuhn. - Rated
A really good introduction to Thomas Kuhn which would cover the concerns both of the philosophy-of -science specialist and those of the generally philosophically-interested reader has long been overdue. Happily, Alexander Bird's book is that long-needed volume. The book begins from a very helpful general overview of the recent past of philosophy of science, before addressing Kuhn's distinctive doctrines in their context. Bird also covers in depth Kuhn's varying conceptions of normal and revolutionary science, including a very helpful analysis of what Kuhn meant (or might have meant) by his notorious notion of a "paradigm". The aims of the book go beyond merely introducing and dissecting Kuhn's doctrines, however - there are also some searching criticisms of Kuhn and the world-picture he inherited from the positivistic tradition. Philosophy of science is still often fiercely partisan and this book won't please all of Kuhn's followers or critics, but it does a very thorough (and readable) job of outlining his work and taking a stand on that work's lasting importance. A good resource for anyone interested in (or particularly, teaching) philosophy of science, philosophy of social science and/or theory of knowledge.