The Powers of a Pinball A Discussion of the Scientific Worldview in Twentieth Century Philosophy
Date of Award
2004
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Humanities
First Advisor
Flakne, April
Keywords
Philosophy, Analytic Philosophy, Continental Philosophy
Area of Concentration
Philosophy
Abstract
This work endeavors to chronicle both the scientific worldview and reactions to that worldview within 20th century philosophy. It is an exploration of those who enthusiastically support the scientific worldview, Willard Von Ormand Quine and Donald Davidson, and those who have their doubts, such as Maurice Merleau-Ponty and John McDowell. These authors are brought together within a discussion of which is more fundamental, scientific discoveries or the concepts that enable them. The first chapter looks at Willard Von Ormand Quine and Donald Davidson who support the scientific worldview. The second turns to Maurice Merleau-Ponty and the phenomenological account of science. The third chapter deals with John McDowell's criticisms of both Quine and Davidson, along with his hopes for solving the problems he finds within the scientific worldview.
Recommended Citation
McIlvain, Patrick, "The Powers of a Pinball A Discussion of the Scientific Worldview in Twentieth Century Philosophy" (2004). Theses & ETDs. 3422.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3422
Rights
This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.