The first part consists of discussions of various fundamental problems in the sciences. There are essays on the inter-relation of physics and psychology, on the possible reduction of biology to physics and chemistry, on new approaches to experimental psychology, against the possibility of giving a purely ‘factual’ account of social and political life, and for a fundamental reform of our concept of responsibility. The second section of the book suggests lines of philosophical inquiry which might help to resolve the epistemological and ethical problems arising at the foundations of physics, biology, psychology and the social sciences.
Marjorie Grene was Honorary University Distinguished Professor and Adjunct Professor of Philosophy and Science Studies at Virginia Tech having previously taught at University of California, Davis.
The Study Group on Foundations of Cultural Unity was organised by Michael Polanyi and Edward Pols alongside Marjorie Grene.