In Praise of Natural Philosophy

In Praise of Natural Philosophy argues for a transformation of both science and philosophy, so that these two distinct domains of thought become one: natural philosophy. This in turn has far-reaching consequences for the whole academic enterprise. It transpires that universities need to be reorganized so that they become devoted to seeking and promoting wisdom by rational means – as opposed to just acquiring knowledge. Modern science began as natural philosophy. What today we call science and philosophy, in Newton's time formed one integrated enterprise: to improve our knowledge and understanding of the universe. Profound discoveries were made. And then natural philosophy died. It split into science and philosophy. But the two fragments are defective shadows of the glorious unified endeavour of natural philosophy. Rigour, sheer intellectual good sense, and decisive argument demand that we put the two together again, and rediscover the immense merits of the integrated enterprise of natural philosophy. This requires an intellectual revolution, with profound consequences for how we understand the universe, do both science and philosophy, and tackle global problems. A comprehensive addition to discussions about the purposes of academia, In Praise of Natural Philosophy has dramatic implications for the fate of our world.

Contributor: Nicholas Maxwell Nicholas Maxwell is emeritus reader at University College London and the author of In Praise of Natural Philosophy.

“In Praise of Natural Philosophy is well researched and systematically demonstrates the historical mistakes scholars made over time that artificially divided knowledge into two entities—science and philosophy. Maxwell’s solution is a fully developed model called “aim-oriented empiricism,” which offers a complex range of assumptions that help improve both the methods of science and the academic enterprise. Recommended.” CHOICE --- "His work is erudite and his vision for the 'redrawing of our intellectual landscape' is compelling. [In Praise of Natural Philosophy] is pertinent, discerning, wide-ranging and above all thorough in an argument that asks important questions of both science and philosophy and more especially of the nature of higher education." Metapsychology --- "Maxwell, in veritable crusader spirit, offers a panorama of provocative insights, showing that sincere delving into matters scientific and philosophical can be both stimulating and entertaining." Metascience --- "As a comprehensible addition to the discussions about the purposes of academia, Maxwell's book must be recommended. There is much in Maxwell's complex message to be inspired by." Science & Education