Popper e os pré-socráticos: uma discussão sobre filosofia da ciência

Abstract

This paper explores K. Popper's understanding of the pre-Socratics and maps his debate with two experts in Greek philosophy and science, whose central theme revolves around the beginning of the scientific process and how knowledge evolves. The role of empirical observation gains prominence in the discussion, where Popper claims that it is of little relevance, while G. S. Kirk insists on its importance already in the theories of the first philosophers. G. R. Lloyd, an expert in Greek science, enters the debate, adopting a mediating position, where he states that ancient science is a complex whole and, therefore, one should not make unique and rigid considerations about the Greek scientific method.