Abstract

Scientific progress fundamentally depends on discoveries, yet the philosophy of scientific discovery has received relatively little attention. This volume seeks to address this gap by bringing together interdisciplinary perspectives on the nature, process, and implications of making scientific discoveries. By adopting a broad conception of science—including not only the natural and social sciences but also areas of the humanities—the book explores a set of interrelated questions: What are the preconditions for making discoveries? What constitutes a scientific discovery, and how does it differ from other forms of knowledge acquisition? Are discoveries in physics, biology, linguistics, and environmental studies fundamentally similar, or do they follow discipline-specific patterns? How do naming conventions and conceptual frameworks shape discoveries, and what role do errors and serendipities play in scientific progress? Furthermore, the volume reflects on the societal significance of scientific discoveries, questioning their purposes and epistemic boundaries. By engaging with these fundamental issues, the book aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the structures, dynamics, and epistemic impact of scientific discoveries across disciplines.