The Development And Influence Of Kuhn’s Thought

The publication of The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (1962) marks the true appearance of Kuhn and his thought. The view he advanced in the book was comprehensively criticized by traditional scientific philosophers, and had a long debates between them. Kuhn clarified the basic concepts and ideas in Postcript in 1970, but the misunderstandings and arguments did not disappear. Despite this, Kuhn did not change his view of science, and he wrote some articles to defend himself. Since 1980s, Kuhn switched to lexion study, and stick to a post-Wittgenstein type of scientific development view of evolution. At the same time, those radical Kuhnist developed many new research fields to have further study. In 1996, Kuhn passed away. The 3rd edition of Structure was published. A series of commemorative events were hold in academic circles abroad and domestic. His contributions was not only in the internal development of science and philosophy, but also in natural science, psychology, sociology, economics and many other fields. The year 2012 is the fiftieth anniversary of Kuhn’s publication of The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. The 4th edition Structure was published. Ian Hacking wrote Introductory Essay for it, and gave his own description and evaluation. By this time, the further research on Kuhn is proceed, and these interpretations were more close to Kuhn’s own point of view. More than 50 years, the whole philosophy of science have changed its direction, basic concepts and the research course, and the so-called paradigm revolution have been taken place. Therefore, the four editions of Structure formed the nodes and the axis of the philosophy of science, this is also the reason why Kuhn and his research can continue.