Images

Ian Hacking 02/18/1936 - 05/10/2023

  • Video

  • Period: to

    Ian Hacking's life

    Hacking's work covers a broad spectrum of philosophy and the social sciences subjects. He delves into questions about knowledge, the influence of language on our understanding of reality, and the relationship between science and society. His contributions have impacted ongoing discussions in these areas, sparking fresh ideas and avenues for exploration. It's fascinating to see how his work shapes contemporary debates and inspires further research.
  • The Looping Effect

    The looping effect is all about how the classifications and categories we're placed into can influence our behavior and how we see ourselves. It's like a cycle where we modify our actions based on our classification, further reinforcing those classifications. It's not just a one-way street—it's a feedback loop where our behavior and self-understanding are shaped by the categories we're placed in. It's interesting to think about how our identities can be influenced by the labels society gives us!
  • Indeterminacy in Science

    Indeterminacy in science. It means that many scientific ideas and theories aren't always clear-cut – they've got uncertainties and stuff that's not definite. He examines how scientists manage these unknowns and continue their research, even when things aren't black and white. It's all about the real-life side of science, where not everything is sure, and how that uncertainty is part of the scientific process. It's pretty cool to see how science works with the unknown!
  • Historical Ontology

    Hacking came up with this idea called "historical ontology." It's all about how concepts and categories change over time and shape our understanding of the world and the things we study. He says that scientific classifications aren't fixed but evolve based on historical and social factors. So, the way we categorize and understand things isn't set in stone, but it's influenced by our context. It's like a journey through time and ideas, showing how our knowledge constantly changes and grows.
  • Making Up People

    Imagine we're talking about how the labels society gives us can shape who we are. Hacking says it's a give–and–take—these labels influence us, but we also shape them. It's like a feedback loop. This book dives into who we are, how free we are to choose our paths, and how much society's views can steer our lives. It's all about understanding ourselves within the framework society sets up.