After the Science Wars: Science and the Study of Science

The Science Wars have recently become part of the popular discourse not only across a number of academic disciplines but also in the popular media. The "War" is between one side of scientists who believe that science and its methods are objectives and largely above criticism, and on the other an increasing number of social scientists, historians, philosophers and others gathered under the umbrella of Science Studies. The latter group have in the context of their studies questioned to varying degrees science and its status within our culture. After the Science Wars is an exciting new collection that seeks to move the debate from its recent stasis to a better relationship, especially in light of the Sokal Affair - which at first appeared to raise the status of science in relation to its critics, and now that the dust has settled has also managed to damage it. The book begins with a contribution from Sokal explaining his motivation for the parody and his conclusions from the affair. Then follows original essays by leading philosophers and scientists from a broad spectrum of views all attempting to bridge the wide interdisciplinary gulfs in this discussion and move it forward. After the Science Wars is essential reading for all those interested in the debates surrounding the status of science and its relation to Society and culture.Phillip Barringer is the author of 'After the Science Wars: Science and the Study of Science', published 2001 under ISBN 9780415212083 and ISBN 0415212081.