MIND, SOCIETY, AND THE GROWTH OF KNOWLEDGE

Explanations of the growth of scientific knowledge can be characterize d in terms of logical, cognitive, and social schemas. But cognitive an d social schemas are complementary rather than competitive, and purely social explanations of scientific change are as inadequate as purely cognitive explanations. For example, cognitive explanations of the che mical revolution must be supplemented by and combined with social expl anations, and social explanations of the rise of the mechanical worldv iew must be supplemented by and combined with cognitive explanations. Rational appraisal of cognitive and social strategies for improving kn owledge should appreciate the interdependence of mind and society.