Trust in Numbers

By Theodore M. Porter

Subjects: Wissenschaft, History & Philosophy, Aspect social, Science, social aspects, Social aspects of Science, Sciences - General, Physical Sciences & Mathematics, SCIENCE, Philosophy & Social Aspects, Technologie, Sciences, Soziale Verantwortung, Science, Objectivité, Objectivity, MATHEMATICS, Social aspects

Description: This investigation of the overwhelming appeal of quantification in the modern world discusses the development of cultural meanings of objectivity over two centuries. How are we to account for the current prestige and power of quantitative methods? The usual answer is that quantification is seen as desirable in social and economic investigation as a result of its successes in the study of nature. Theodore Porter is not content with this. Why should the kind of success achieved in the study of stars, molecules, or cells be an attractive model for research on human societies? he asks. And, indeed, how should we understand the pervasiveness of quantification in the sciences of nature? In his view, we should look in the reverse direction: comprehending the attractions of quantification in business, government, and social research will teach us something new about its role in psychology, physics, and medicine. - Jacket flap.