Mario Bunge Book order

Nearly all philosophers have dealt with the outcomes of scientific research, and have overlooked its philosophical presuppositions, such as those of rationality and realism. Although these presuppositions are mostly tacit and thus easily overlooked, actually they are supremely important, since some of them favor research whereas others hamper it. For instance, whereas subjectivism leads to navel gazing and uncontrolled fantasy, realism encourages us to explore the world and check our conjectures. This book examines science in the making, a process it illustrates with many examples from the natural, social, and biosocial sciences. Therefore it centers on the research process and its philosophical presuppositions. It claims that the latter constitutes a sort of matrix for conceiving and nurturing scientific projects.

Accompanying Mario Bunge through his autobiography is a journey across diverse countries and an exploration of the intellectual, political, philosophical, and scientific landscapes of the past century. This experience reveals a blend of contrasting worlds: the personal and the professional. Bunge's enduring love for science is evident, as he dedicated his life to scientific work, teaching, and mentoring across various disciplines. The book offers life lessons that illuminate philosophical ideas and scientific insights previously found in his notes, articles, and books. With passion and candidness, Bunge recounts his experiences—persecutions, banishments, imprisonments, successes, and relationships—imbuing them with sincerity and humor. Readers encounter the remarkable individuals who shaped his century of achievements and profound thoughts. This autobiography is a reflection of Bunge himself, sharing memories through his unique lens. At 96, he presents a work accessible to all—those who appreciate the trauma of his life, fellow enthusiasts of science and culture, and even those with whom he has had disagreements, affirming his role as a steadfast defender of his beliefs.

The book explores the philosophical debate surrounding the nature of reality, advocating for realism through the lens of hylorealism. Mario Bunge critiques major anti-realist philosophies, including those of Berkeley, Hume, and Kant, asserting that they impede scientific progress. He argues that true scientific explanations rely on causal laws and mechanisms beyond mere empirical observations. Additionally, Bunge defends a realist interpretation of universals and dispositions, challenging contemporary modal logic approaches.

Focusing on the concepts of parts and wholes, as well as the origin of novelty, Mario Bunge explores the challenges within the sciences and humanities. He delves into systems and their emergent properties, illustrating his ideas through examples such as molecular synthesis, the generation of ideas, and social innovations. The work aims to provide insights into how complex systems evolve and develop new characteristics, contributing to a deeper understanding of emergence and convergence in various fields.

Exploring the interplay of value, morality, and action, this introduction outlines a comprehensive approach to understanding these concepts within the framework of human knowledge. It posits that all animals engage in evaluations and that social behaviors, termed 'moral principles,' are learned and practiced. The text distinguishes between the factual aspects of valuation and the theoretical study of these phenomena, inviting insights from zoology, social psychology, and philosophy to analyze and critique moral norms and behavior patterns.

Focusing on the philosophical underpinnings of medicine, this book systematically explores the fundamental concepts and assumptions that shape medical research and practice. It delves into various aspects, including the nature of disease, diagnosis logic, drug discovery, clinical trial design, and the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals. By addressing a wide range of topics often overlooked in philosophical discussions, it serves as a valuable resource for healthcare workers, medical enthusiasts, and philosophers alike, encouraging deeper understanding and critical thought in the field.

Focusing on the foundational aspects of physics, this book aims to analyze key ideas, formulate basic theories in an axiomatic manner, and explore their philosophical implications. It addresses controversial issues and challenges outdated philosophical views that impede understanding. By concentrating on classical mechanics, general relativity, and quantum mechanics, the author encourages readers to engage actively with the material, suggesting they contribute to the ongoing discourse or even revise existing content.

Challenging the conventional divide between sociology and philosophy, this work explores their interconnectedness and the potential for a more integrated approach to understanding social phenomena. It argues for a dialogue between the two disciplines, highlighting how philosophical concepts can enrich sociological analysis and vice versa. Through various case studies and theoretical discussions, the author advocates for a synthesis that enhances both fields, ultimately aiming to deepen our comprehension of society and human behavior.