Thomas S. Kuhn
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Thomas S. Kuhn | |
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| Born | 18 July 1922 |
| Died | 17 June 1996 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Historian of science; philosopher |
| Known for | Paradigm theory; philosophy of science; scientific revolutions |
| Notable work | The Structure of Scientific Revolutions |
Thomas S. Kuhn (18 July 1922 – 17 June 1996) was a historian and philosopher of science whose work addressed the development of scientific knowledge and the dynamics of theory change. He examined how scientific communities organize research and how conceptual frameworks shift over time.
His work emphasized historical analysis rather than formal reconstruction of scientific theories.
Early life and education
Kuhn was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. He studied physics at Harvard University and later turned to the history and philosophy of science.
His scientific training informed his approach to historical case studies.
Philosophy of science
Kuhn examined how scientific research operates within shared frameworks he termed paradigms. He argued that normal science proceeds within such frameworks until persistent anomalies lead to periods of conceptual instability.
These ideas were developed in The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (1962).
Paradigms and revolutions
Kuhn described scientific change as involving shifts between incommensurable paradigms rather than cumulative extension of knowledge. He emphasized changes in standards, methods, and problem selection.
This account challenged linear models of scientific progress.
Incommensurability
Kuhn introduced the notion of incommensurability to describe difficulties in comparing theories that rely on different conceptual frameworks. He argued that translation between paradigms may be limited.
This claim generated debate regarding rationality and scientific realism.
Relationship to institutions
Kuhn held academic positions at several American universities, including Princeton University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He worked across history, philosophy, and science studies.
He participated in interdisciplinary discussions beyond philosophy departments.
Limits and uncertainty
Kuhn’s claims about incommensurability and paradigm change have been interpreted in multiple ways. Critics dispute whether his account undermines objectivity or rational evaluation in science.
There is no single agreed interpretation of his position.
Status
Thomas S. Kuhn is regarded as a central figure in twentieth-century philosophy of science. His work continues to be discussed in studies of scientific change and theory development.