The book challenges traditional views of scientific objectivity and truth from "summary" of Leviathan and the Air-Pump by Steven Shapin,Simon Schaffer
Through a detailed examination of the dispute between Thomas Hobbes and Robert Boyle in the 17th century, Shapin and Schaffer reveal a profound challenge to the prevailing ideas of scientific objectivity and truth. By delving into the intricate interactions between these two influential figures, the authors dismantle the simplistic notion that scientific knowledge is a straightforward reflection of an objective reality. Instead, they illuminate how scientific knowledge is shaped by social, political, and cultural factors, complicating the traditional view of science as a neutral and unbiased pursuit of truth. The authors demonstrate how Boyle's experimental practices were not merely driven by a quest for knowledge, but were deeply entwined with his political and philosophical beliefs. Through his meticulous experiments with the air-pump, Boyle sought to assert his authority and legitimacy in a tumultuous intellectual landscape. His experiments were not just about uncovering natural laws, but also about establishing his own credibility and promoting his vision of science as a rational and objective...
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