Michael Polanyi

À propos de l'auteur

Michael Polanyi was a Hungarian-British polymath who made significant contributions to the fields of physical chemistry, philosophy of science, and economics. Born in Budapest, he initially pursued a career in chemistry, becoming a prominent figure in the study of thermodynamics and catalysis. His academic journey took him across Europe, and he eventually settled in Britain, where he continued his research and teaching, influencing many students and fellow scholars with his innovative ideas.

Polanyi is perhaps best known for his philosophical work, particularly in the realm of knowledge and scientific inquiry. His influential book, "Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy," argues for the importance of personal involvement and tacit knowledge in the pursuit of understanding. He challenged the prevailing positivist view, positing that scientific knowledge is not just a collection of objective facts but also deeply rooted in personal experience and social contexts. Polanyi's thoughts have left a lasting mark on both the philosophy of science and the broader understanding of knowledge.