Faculty Introduction for “Science as a Social Construction”

For her final research paper in my fall 2018 Perspectives on the Humanities course, Xinyu Wang explored a long-running debate from the philosophy of science. Xinyu’s paper makes a seemingly arcane academic debate come to life. Her essay critiques Karl Popper’s theories by juxtaposing them with the work of other scholars. Throughout the paper, Xinyu examines the assumptions within a number of texts, exposing logical flaws while also finding resonances and connections among the work of theorists such as Bruno Latour and Trevor Pinch. I especially admire Xinyu’s ability to compare and contrast sources through well-chosen and seamlessly integrated quotations. Although the paper foregrounds other scholars’ ideas, Xinyu’s clear and forceful prose ensures that her own interpretation is never lost. The last section of the paper underscores the broader implications of the argument, showing how abstract philosophical questions might shape our understanding of pressing problems, such as climate change. 

Read “Science as a Social Construction” here.

Joseph Giacomelli, Lecturer in the Writing Program