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Ernest Nagel 1901-1985/ Godel's Proof
In 1931 the mathematical logician Kurt Godel published a paper that challenged certain assumptions underpinning mathematics and logic. The importance of Godel's Proof rests upon its radical implication, echoing throughout many fields, from maths to science to philosophy, artificial intelligence, even religion and psychology. Godel’s Proof by Nagel is for both mathematicians and the idly curious, offering those with a taste for logic the chance to satisfy their intellectual curiosity. -
Ernest Nagel (1901-1985)/ Scientific Reduction
Recent reduction debates in the philosophy of science were initiated by Ernest Nagel’s model of theory reduction which has also received considerable attention in the philosophy of mind. A reduction is effected when the experimental laws of the secondary science (and if it has an adequate theory, its theory as well) are shown to be the logical consequences of the theoretical assumptions (inclusive of the coordinating definitions) of the primary science. One theory reduces to another. -
Ernest Nagel (1901-1985)/ The Structure of Science
This book discusses the nature of scientific inquiry with reference to both natural science and social science. Nagel explores the role of reduction and the relationship of wholes to their parts. The book received positive reviews, as well as some more mixed assessments. It is considered a classic work, and commentators have praised it for Nagel's discussion of reductionism and holism, as well as for his criticism of Berlin.
https://youtu.be/oJbiK-3YIoU -
Ernest Nagel (1901-1985)/ Columbia University
Nagel was the outstanding spokesman of what philosophy could offer in terms of analysis of the scientific method and the relation between science and perennial problems such as as those of causality and determinism. What is important about this influence is that it was not simply students of philosophy, but students of many different disciplines whom he influenced in a way that many of them still remember.
http://youtu.be/R_Va91Q0VK4
