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Paul Feyerabend's Anarchistic Theory of Knowledge
Paul Feyerabends anarchistische Erkenntnistheorie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:08
Abstract
Paul K. Feyerabend characterized his magnum opus “Against method” as an “anarchistic theory of knowledge”. In this book, he crusaded against analytical philosophy of science and critical rationalism. Feyerabend’s advocating for a variety of forms of knowledge has been debated heatedly, but is still relevant for contextualizing the role of science in society.
Objective
It is the aim of this seminar to become acquainted with the epistemology of Paul Feyerabend and to analyse its relevance for our time.
Content
We will start this seminar with a close reading of Paul Feyerabends Wider den Methodenzwang ( Link ) (acquisition and reading of this book are required) and continue with the analysis of selected chapters from Feyerabend’s other monographs in order to unveil the connections between epistemology, science, freedom and Enlightenment for the present age.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | Paul Feyerabends anarchistische Erkenntnistheorie |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
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