Fin de siecle Austrian Thought and the Rise of Scientific Philosophy

In: History of European ideas, Band 27, Heft 3, S. 307-315

Abstract

I consider three conditions to explain the emergence of scientific philosophy in Austrian thought at the turn of the century, concentrating on Vienna & Graz as distinct centers of philosophical development: (1) An outlook that seeks philosophical truth in sound reasoning, combined with a commitment to developing & practicing a methodology that is not essentially dependent on any particular culture's literary-philosophical traditions; (2) The desire to transcend national boundaries in the pursuit of philosophical understanding, as manifested in international professional conferences, publications, & training of international students; & (3) Cultural infrastructure that sustains ambitious philosophical projects, including tangible assets like financial resources, established education institutions, & communication networks, but also less conspicuous elements, eg, a political environment of open inquiry, a relatively free press, community support for the enhancement of learning, & participation in an international language of science. 3 References. Adapted from the source document.