This is the essay (not actually considered a book, although it is published in that format) that defined the modern conception of scientific discovery. That is to say, that scientific progress does not occur through the gradual addition of knowledge over long periods of time, but by successive moments of abrupt reevaluation of the knowledge base; what he famously termed “paradigm shifts”. Kuhn was the first to highlight the historical evidence and ever so logically build the foundations for this singular thesis, which is laid out in thirteen sections (as the author called the “essay chapters”).
Of note, all his historical examples stem from the physical sciences, but having earned a BS, MSc and PhD in physics, this is natural. Notwithstanding, any student in the biological sciences will easily be able to find the parallels and relate to the material. Not what most readers would consider light reading, but fortunately this anniversary edition comes with two intellectual aids: 1) an extensive introductory outline by fellow science philosopher Ian Hacking, and 2) a detailed postscript written by Kuhn himself seven years after the original publication of the essay in 1962. Together they nicely guide the reader through the content by providing historical and philosophical context as well as filling in gaps in some of the arguments. Overall, this text is enjoyable and deeply enlightening- highly recommended, particularly for scientists-in-training.
