The Scientific Outlook

According to Bertrand Russell, science is knowledge; that which seeks general laws connecting a number of particular facts. It is, he argues, far superior to art, where much of the knowledge is intangible and assumed. In The Scientific Outlook, Russell delivers one of his most important works, exploring the nature and scope of scientific knowledge, the increased power over nature that science affords and the changes in the lives of human beings that result from new forms of science. Insightful and accessible, this impressive work sees Russell at his very best.

Bertrand Russell (1872–1970) was one of the most formidable thinkers of the modern era. A philosopher, mathematician, educational innovator, champion of intellectual, social and sexual freedom, and a campaigner for peace and human rights, he was also a prolific writer of popular and influential books, essays and lectures on an extensive range of subjects.

Considered to be one of the most controversial figures of the twentieth century, Bertrand Russell is widely renowned for his provocative writings. These definitive works offer profound insights and forward-thinking perspectives on a changing western society progressively shaped, most significantly, by two world wars, the decline of British imperialism and an evolving moral landscape.

Preface by David Papineau; Introduction Part 1: Scientific Knowledge 1. Examples of Scientific Method 2. Characteristics of Scientific Method 3. Limitations of Scientific Method 4. Scientific Metaphysics 5. Science and Religion Part 2: Scientific Technique 6. Beginnings of Scientific Technique 7. Technique in Inanimate Nature 8. Technique in Biology 9. Technique in Physiology 10. Technique in Psychology 11. Technique in Society Part 3: The Scientific Society 12. Artificially Created Societies 13. The Individual and the Whole 14. Scientific Government 15. Education in a Scientific Society 16. Scientific Reproduction 17. Science and Values Index