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26:41
Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
(Re)cognizing postmodernity: helps for historians--of science especially
1National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20013-7013, USA. formanp@si.edu
Berichte Zur Wissenschaftsgeschichte
|August 11, 2010
Summary
Postmodernity marks a shift from modernity, devaluing science and prioritizing technology. This era replaces methodical scientists with self-interested entrepreneurs, reflecting a cultural reevaluation of values and expertise.
Area of Science:
- Cultural studies
- Philosophy of science
- Sociology of technology
Background:
- Modernity valued methodical, disinterested scientific inquiry.
- Postmodernism is an intellectual stance, distinct from the broader era of postmodernity.
- The transition from modernity to postmodernity began around 1980.
Observation:
- Postmodernity features a downgrading of science and an upgrading of technology.
- The ideal of the methodical scientist is replaced by the entrepreneurial figure.
- There's a cultural rejection of rule-following ('methodism') and disinterestedness.
Findings:
- The shift signifies a transvaluation of values, driven by egocentric and risk-taking postmodern personalities.
- Scholarly attention has moved from science to technology since 1980.
- Explanations have shifted from causalist 'influence' to voluntarist 'resource' models.
Implications:
- This cultural shift impacts the perceived value and practice of scientific research.
- Understanding this transition is crucial for analyzing contemporary knowledge production.
- The rise of the entrepreneur challenges traditional scientific norms and values.
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