Thomas S. Kuhn
One of the big names among historians and philosophers of science. His Structure of Scientific Revolutions (1962) was an epoch-making book both in History of Science and Philosophy of Science, giving rise to "New Philosophy of Science". His words "paradigm", "normal science", "anomaly", and "incommensurability" became a fashion among students in the fields, and he had an impact on sociology of science.
However, after confrontations with philosophers of science such as Popperians, his claims became milder. And he remained somehow reserved as regards newer movements in recent science studies, such as the "strong program" (Edinburgh School) or the "social constructivism". In any case, it is a great honour for a thinker that he or she is interpreted in many ways and criticized by various people.
Visit David Levine Gallery where you can find a picture of Kuhn.
January 5, 1999; last modified April 18, 2003. (c) Soshichi Uchii
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