Philosophy: The Lynchpin of Scientism (Published)
The intellectual legacies of Bacon and Descartes, as well as the Newtonian scientific tradition undoubtedly brought about an era of natural scientific research anchoring its ideal on objectivity that led to scientism. This hyper-belief in science and the subjugation of philosophy (and other sources of knowledge) has given rise to a complex scenario and gap, created by the inability of science to address other cosmic issues including metaphysical ones. The hegemony of science which mostly derives from the dominance of science in economic and social fields owing to its technological progress and advancements, has created problems that threaten man and morality. The issue is, is science still interested in the good of man if his existence and morality are jeopardized? Is the claim for the sole mantle of rationality by scientism, and the equation of science with reason itself still valid, given the multifarious irrational scientific productions against life like abortion pills, weapons of mass destruction, etc? Has science solved and answered all problems? Is it a perfect discipline and the only source of knowledge? It is against this backdrop that this paper, through expository and critical analysis unveiled the ambiguity, complexity, and illogicality of this scientific claim for superiority (scientism), concluding that science is not superior, and not the only way of knowing reality, but mainly engages itself in proffering solutions to the hydra-headed problems of the physical world which is a part in a whole. Philosophy still reigns supreme and goes deeper to guide and checkmate the excesses of science in order to strike a balance, and unravel metaphysical realities that are beyond the scope of science.
Keywords: Man, Philosophy, Science, scientism, universe.
The Epistemic Dimension of Symbolism in Science and the Supernatural . (Published)
The history of Symbolism as a theoretical entity can be juxtaposed with the history of human knowledge. Its major expression appears to be within the confines of supernaturalism exemplified in various religions of the world. Symbols represent ideals in Africa and acts as the mirror of the unseen. In formal and empirical sciences symbols are codified and universalized for general acceptability. The universal acceptability has a double entendre and this is of vital importance in epistemology. The importance of symbolism cannot be over emphasized. However, how reliable are symbols as mirrors to reality? To what extent do we say that a symbol is a true representation of the ideal or absolute knowledge? The purpose of this paper is to analyze the epistemological character of symbolism in human knowledge.
Keywords: Mathematical and logical Symbolism., Physical and Mental realities, Religion., Science, Symbols, Universality
SCIENCE AND INVASION:THE DAWN OF EPISTEMIC IMPERIALISM (Published)
Sergio Leone in the classical 1966 film ‘the Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ (Il buono, ilbrutto, il cattivo) produced by Alberto Grimaldi depicts the theme of ‘violence and a deconstruction of Old west Romanticism. As in the title which makes a juxtaposition of varying themes inherent in one movie, science has over the years become potent for both the good and the bad. With its mind-blowing breakthroughs, it has unlocked mysteries, created new knowledge. It has equally generated anxieties and dominance via its methodological rules. This paper examines science and her envisioned biotechnological inventions from the prism of imperialism anchored on methodology. Employing philosophical analysis as our underlining method, we argue for caution against this scientific incursion.
Keywords: Epistemic Imperialism, Invasion, Science