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Born in 1942 in Derby, England, David Bloor has become a prominent British figure in the philosophy of science. His influential contributions to sociology knowledge lead to a broader understanding of how society and cultural factors effect scientific practices and beliefs. Receiving numerous awards as well as the John Desmond Bernal Prize.
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Collaborating with Shelia Mullett, Bloor engaged with the ideas of Michael Polanyi, a renowned philosopher of science. Their work, "Knowing and Being: Essays by Michael Polanyi", contributed to the understanding of knowledge and its implications in scientific discovery. Bloor's exploration of Polanyi's concepts furthered the discourse on the sociology of scientific knowledge.
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Bloor, along with colleagues, co-established the Strong Programme in sociology of scientific knowledge. These principles include Causality, Impartiality, Symmetry, and Reflexivity. Challenging traditional views of objectivity in science, Bloor argued that social and cultural factors influenced scientific knowledge. A paradigm shift had occurred. -
Bloor extended his work into Wittgenstein's philosophy, publicizing "Wittgenstein: A Social Theory of Knowledge". Articulating the social interpretation of knowledge, highlighting the role of language and social practices in the world. This new perspective challenged traditional epistemological views.
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Bloor published "Knowledge and Social Imagery", an influential book into the social construct of knowledge, explored how cultural context and social factors shaped scientific practices and beliefs. Providing a foundation of understanding between society and scientific endeavors, challenging the view of science as an objective pursuit.
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Now a Professor of Science Studies at the University of Edinburgh, he continues to give lectures and interviews on the sociology of science and philosophy of science. A highly respected figure in these fields, his work continues to influence scholars and students. His most recent published book is titled "The enigma of the Aerofoil: Rival Theories in Aerodynamics".