Self-preservation and the Transformation of Nature: A Response to Garber

Authors

  • Dolores Iorizzo University of Notre Dame in London

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5840/eps202158342

Keywords:

Francis Bacon, Daniel Garber, scientific method, progress in the sciences, speculative philosophy, unity of the sciences, semi-paracelsian cosmology, forms, latent processes, self-preservation, appetites of nature, transformation of bodies, prolongation of life

Abstract

Garber demonstrates the shortcomings of a popular and idealised version of Baconian scientific method set against his close reading of Bacon's Novum Organon BK II. The results of Garber's analysis show that Bacon had not one but two philosophies, both of which were informed by his matter theory and speculative cosmology. This paper draws out the implications of Garber's reading of Baconian induction in physics transferred to the natural sciences, and draws attention to the ultimate aim of Bacon's philosophical programme as the prolongation of life.

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Published

2021-12-10

Issue

Vol. 58 No. 3 (2021): Epistemology & Philosophy of Science

Section

Panel Discussion

How to Cite

[1]
2021. Self-preservation and the Transformation of Nature: A Response to Garber. Epistemology & Philosophy of Science. 58, 3 (Dec. 2021), 47–56. DOI:https://doi.org/10.5840/eps202158342.