Imre Lakatos (1922–1974)

Really accessible debate regarding Kuhnian paradigms of science with some very amusing phrasing where they are ripping shreds 'politely' off each other.

This is a marvellous (and I use the word advisedly) collection of presentations and commentary by some of the most brilliant scholars of the recent past. It deals with some major issues in the history and philosophy of science, with real style and verve.

There are five papers in this collection. They overlap, and they have widely different relevance. The first paper is the most important: it is where Lakatos presents his methodology. The second paper is also interesting in that he applies this methodology to epistemology itself.

Lakatos is convincing, engaging, and a good complement and counterpoint to Feyerabend's Against Method.

A classic text on the philosophy of science, improved by the addition of an imaginary debate by the editor. Along with the work of Kuhn and Popper, this is essential reading for the social scientist interested in theory and metatheory.