What responsibility do the Manhattan Project scientists have for the atomic devastation of Hiroshima? Krupps scientists for the crematoriums at Auschwitz? Is there no way to revisit the ideals of science once devoted to creating a more reasonable and open society free from prejudices? Disturbing questions like these are at the heart of this sobering exploration of scientific and intellectual responsibility.
The exploration of Karl Popper's influence reveals his dual role as a philosopher of science and a champion of the "open society." Focusing on his moral and psychological insights, the book illustrates how Popper's advocacy for individual autonomy aligns with the necessity of institutional guidelines for true freedom. It emphasizes the parallels between scientific and democratic practices, highlighting critical rationality and non-violent leadership change. Additionally, Raphael Sassower discusses the significant impact of Popper's ideas on various intellectual movements, including feminism and postmodernism.
Exploring the complexities of contemporary society, this book delves into the implications of genetic research, particularly the emergence of cloning, and the dangers associated with nuclear energy manipulation. It critiques the uneven outcomes of globalization, highlighting the widening social and economic divides. Drawing parallels with the works of Herbert Marcuse and Sigmund Freud, the author presents a thought-provoking analysis that combines extensive research with personal insights, offering a critical examination of our current cultural and existential challenges.
What is at stake in compromising the Enlightenment ideals of liberal education with educational policies engendered by a neo-liberalized, global marketplace? This text explores Western culture's longstanding ambivalence toward the life of the mind. schovat popis
Exploring technoscience and economics through a postmodern lens, this work combines diverse motifs with the author's personal insights. It offers a distinctive viewpoint on political history, blending theoretical discussions with practical experience to challenge conventional understandings of these fields.
Exploring the foundational assumptions of contemporary political economy, this book critically examines the frames of reference that shape our understanding. It challenges readers to evaluate which of these assumptions are still relevant and which should be reconsidered or abandoned, prompting a reevaluation of established beliefs in the field.
The exploration of hypocrisy reveals its dual role as a protective mechanism and a means of fostering social bonds. By tracing its origins from Greek theater masks to Hebrew chameleons, Sassower critiques traditional views on hypocrisy, challenging the notion of a uniform mind and the connection between intention and behavior. He highlights the complexities of personal conduct and the situational nature of hypocrisy, suggesting that accusations among friends can enhance trust and community, while also addressing the limitations of conventional moral and political frameworks.
Solo Postmodern Explorations provides a postmodern approach to technoscience and economics. Sassower pulls together postmodern motifs and attitudes with his own experience to provide a unique perspective on political history and economics.
This book asks what are the common assumptions - or frames of references - that underlie our understanding of political economy today. How many of them are worthy of retaining? Could others be discarded?