Physics vs. Social Text: Anatomy of a Hoax

In: Telos, Heft 107, S. 45-61

Abstract

Argues that it was not an antiscience sentiment that led Social Text editors to invite physicist Alan Sokal (1997 [see abstract 9711059]) to submit an overtly philosophical commentary, but a proscience prejudice, which has persisted in subsequent debates over this hoax. This episode in misunderstanding of scientific terminology & dependency on science's legitimating value in postmodern culture is read as a result of science's continued unchallenged position of truth & value. It is suggested that proper challenges to science must be left to philosophy because questions of what is good vs bad science are often philosophical, not scientific. The work of philosopher Paul Feyerabend is read as an important effort in this regard, because he shows the inner workings & proper limits of modern technical science. Finally, postmodernism's sophistication in science & technology is criticized because it operates in the conventional equation of science with liberation & freedom & cannot properly assess the value of scientific truth. D. M. Smith