The Tyranny of Science

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Paul Feyerabend, a prominent 20th-century philosopher of science, presents a compelling narrative that explores the rise of rationalism in Ancient Greece, which led to the establishment of a mythical ‘scientific worldview.’ In this accessible work, he challenges prevalent myths about science, particularly the notion that it is inherently successful. Feyerabend argues that fundamental assumptions about science are often misguided, with many scientific ideologies stemming from superficial generalizations that distort our understanding of human life. He contends that scientific theorizing fails to address pressing issues like war and poverty, instead favoring fleeting generalities over the real particulars that imbue life with meaning. The emphasis on objectivity and generality, rooted in abstraction, comes at a significant cost, creating a disconnect between thought and experience. Theoreticians impose a tyranny on concepts, neglecting the subjective experiences that enrich life. Feyerabend posits that practical experience serves as a more reliable guide to reality than theory alone and asserts that all forms of tyranny, even those with noble intentions, can be resisted. Provocative and iconoclastic, this work represents one of Feyerabend’s final contributions and is essential reading for those interested in the impact of science on the modern world.