Ideology and Science Flashcards
What does Popper mean by ‘Falsification’?
Where scientists set out to prove a statement wrong.
What are the four CUDOS norms?
Communism; universalism; disinterestedness; organised scepticism – all are norms to which
scientists must adhere when pursuing scientific knowledge.
In what sense is witchcraft among the Azande a closed belief system?
It cannot be overturned by evidence because the believers accept basic assumptions that
cannot be challenged.
Why does the case of Dr Vlikovsky suggest that science may be a closed belief system?
Because scientists reacted to his new theory by immediate rejection, rather than testing it
via scientific means.
Explain Mannheim’s distinction between ‘Ideological Thought’ and ‘Utopian Thought’.
Ideological thought justifies the status quo; utopian thought justifies social change.
What is false consciousness?
Ways of thinking (of the oppressed) that are the product of ideology (of the ruling class).
According to Mannheim, why is there a need for a ‘Free-Floating Intelligentsia’?
Because they would not be attached to any particular interest group and therefore could
represent the interests of society as a whole.
What does Gramsci see as the two sides of workers’ dual consciousness?
Ruling‐class ideology and consciousness arising from exploitation and struggle.
