In considering the nature of scientific knowledge,philosopher Ian Hacking suggests that:
A) there is something legitimate in both social constructivism and scientific truth.
B) cultural norms and social situations have little influence on scientific discoveries.
C) scientific facts are created,not discovered.
D) claims undermining the purity of scientific pursuit weaken scientific claims to truth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ian Hacking argues that both social constructivism, which emphasizes the impact of cultural, historical, and social factors on scientific knowledge, and the pursuit of scientific truth have validity. He suggests that scientific facts are not discovered but created through scientific practices that are shaped by social and cultural contexts. Thus, while scientific knowledge is objective and based on empirical evidence, it is also influenced by social factors such as interests, values, and cultural backgrounds.

In Considering the Nature of Scientific Knowledge,philosopher Ian Hacking Suggests