Hempel focuses upon the rational and empirical nature of scientific practice. Notably absent from his account is the social and political context of science. Collins and Pinch, on the other hand, view science as an inherently social process. Imagine that Hempel is in a debate with Collins and Pinch and that they are arguing about whether scientific knowledge should be understood to be simply the result of rational and empirical methods of investigation or a social product that, like all social products, is shaped and determined by its social conditions and contexts. What would each side of this debate say? Who do you agree with more?
-This writing assignment should be 2-3 pages in length.