
Publication details
Year: 2011
Pages: 111-119
Series: Synthese
Full citation:
, "Stances and paradigms", Synthese 178 (1), 2011, pp. 111-119.


Stances and paradigms
a reflection
pp. 111-119
in: Darrell P. Rowbottom, Otávio Bueno (eds), Stance and rationality, Synthese 178 (1), 2011.Abstract
This paper compares and contrasts the concept of a stance with that of a paradigm qua disciplinary matrix, in an attempt to illuminate both notions. First, it considers to what extent it is appropriate to draw an analogy between stances (which operate at the level of the individual) and disciplinary matrices (which operate at the level of the community). It suggests that despite first appearances, a disciplinary matrix is not simply a stance writ large. Second, it examines how we might reinterpret disciplinary matrices in terms of stances, and shows how doing so can provide us with a better insight into non-revolutionary science. Finally, it identifies two directions for future research: “Can the rationality of scientific revolutions be understood in terms of the dynamic between stances and paradigms?” and “Do stances help us to understand incommensurability between disciplinary matrices?”
Publication details
Year: 2011
Pages: 111-119
Series: Synthese
Full citation:
, "Stances and paradigms", Synthese 178 (1), 2011, pp. 111-119.