An Introduction to the Thought of Karl Popper

by Roberta Corvi, Patrick Camiller (Translator)

This is a comprehensive introduction to the philosophical and political thought of Karl Popper, now available in English. It is divided into three parts; the first part provides a biography of Popper; the second part looks at his works and recurrent themes, and the third part assesses his critics. It was approved of by Popper himself as a sympathetic and comprehensive study, and will be ideal to meet the increasing demand for a summary introduction to his work.

Genres: Philosophy

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Anjana Prabhu-Paseband · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this for the scientific theory and for the understanding of the Open Society concepts.

Scientific Theory:
His falsification theory about science, a solution to induction problem by Hume, the raven paradox and corroboration are great concepts which shaped the face of science in the 21st century.

Democracy concepts:
The Open Society is quite well explained with possible practical solutions to the paradox of tolerance and democracy. This is important in today's political context when established democracies are vulnerable to a small group of intolerant people. He postulates that the power given to a state leader is the necessary evil which keeps all the citizens under control. He however also admits that with free speech there is always a danger of strong intolerant people overpowering the weak tolerant ones (paradox of tolerance). Popper postulates that it is necessary to keep a check on these free speeches -for the government's aim is to keep the society under balance and to move from a traditional to a modern institution for the society to function well. He criticises Marx and his ideas of socialism which is based on strict institutional workings. Popper strongly believed that ideas had the power to change people's lifestyles and social conditions.

The more I read Popper's ideas, the more I agree with the European Union's decisions in implementing GDPR and other data protection rules. Having seen Plato's Republic used in extreme ways by racial totalitarian regimes, Popper is convinced that any ambiguity in interpretation will be used for the benefits of the rulers over the ruled.

"Metaphysics"
With Popper's strong bent towards Darwinism and mathematics, he chose to divide the world of our thinking into 3 categories. He is not quite convincing when it comes to his explanation of consciousness models including the mutability of thoughts. It was confusing and contradicting from his own previous explanations. I skipped through this part as Popper is not really known for his ideas on this field and I personally couldn't agree with his ideas.

Great introduction on Popper's thoughts. Please read. I am sure these intellectual ideas are becoming a rarity in today's "educated" world.

5 stars because the author has clearly explained the concepts.