[Reductionist approaches of complex problems: an epistemological and ethical reflection]

Area of Science:

• Philosophy of Science
• Biomedical Sciences
• Epistemology

Context:

• Critiques the 'standard view' and scientism in techno-scientific knowledge.
• Analyzes the hegemonic position of scientism in education, innovation, and application.
• Highlights the need to overcome reductionist approaches in science.

Purpose:

• Define the meaning and scope of epistemological reductionism in biomedical sciences.
• Trace the genealogy of reductionism within biomedical disciplines.
• Explicate the various manifestations and consequences of reductionism.

Summary:

• Investigates epistemological reductionism's role in the biomedical sciences.
• Details the theoretical and practical implications of accepting reductionism.
• Examines the ethical dimensions of reductionist approaches in theory and practice.

Impact:

• Reveals the detrimental consequences of naive or complicit acceptance of reductionism.
• Underscores the ethical implications for the theory and practice of biomedical sciences.
• Provides a framework for overcoming reductionist paradigms in scientific research and application.