# Note ## ChatGPT Answer "Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy" is a philosophical book written by Michael Polanyi, a Hungarian-British polymath and scientist. Published in 1958, it explores the nature of scientific knowledge and challenges the prevailing view of objectivity and detached observation in the scientific method. Polanyi argues that knowledge is inherently personal and subjective, rejecting the idea that it can be completely detached from the knower. He introduces the concept of "tacit knowledge," which refers to the unspoken and intuitive understanding that individuals possess but cannot fully articulate. According to Polanyi, this tacit knowledge plays a crucial role in all aspects of human cognition, including scientific inquiry. The book explores various disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and sociology to illustrate how personal involvement and commitment shape scientific understanding. Polanyi contends that scientists cannot separate themselves entirely from their observations or experiments; they are engaged participants who rely on intuitive judgments and personal experiences. Polanyi also criticizes the dominant philosophy of logical positivism prevalent at the time. He argues against its strict adherence to empiricism and its demand for objective verification as the only valid form of knowledge. Instead, he advocates for a more holistic approach that acknowledges the limitations of objectivity while embracing subjectivity as an essential component of human knowing. "Personal Knowledge" has had a significant impact beyond philosophy, influencing various fields such as sociology, psychology, education, and even management theory. Its emphasis on personal involvement in knowing has shaped discussions on expertise, intuition, and tacit knowledge across multiple disciplines. Overall, Polanyi's book challenges traditional notions of objectivity in scientific inquiry by highlighting the role of personal engagement and subjective experience in the pursuit of knowledge. It remains a thought-provoking work that continues to stimulate debates about epistemology and our understanding of how we know what we know. ## Bard Answer **Published in 1958, it's considered a landmark work in philosophy of science and knowledge.** It challenges the traditional view of scientific knowledge as purely objective and impersonal, arguing instead that **personal involvement and tacit understanding are essential parts of the knowing process.** [Opens in a new window](https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Michael-Polanyi/dp/022623262X)[www.amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Michael-Polanyi/dp/022623262X) Personal Knowledge by Michael Polanyi book cover Here are some key points about the book: - **Critique of logical positivism:** Polanyi criticizes the dominant philosophy of science at the time, logical positivism, which held that knowledge could only be derived from sense experience and logical reasoning. He argues that this view overlooks the crucial role of tacit knowledge, skills, and intuition in scientific discovery and understanding. - **The role of tacit knowledge:** Polanyi emphasizes the importance of tacit knowledge, which is the kind of knowledge we know how to do, but cannot easily articulate or explain. He argues that tacit knowledge is essential for all forms of skilled activity, including scientific research. - **The personal coefficient:** Polanyi introduces the concept of the "personal coefficient," which refers to the individual's unique perspective and biases that shape their understanding of the world. He argues that the personal coefficient is an essential part of all knowledge, and that it cannot be eliminated by following purely objective methods. - **The art of scientific discovery:** Polanyi views scientific discovery as an art, not a science. He argues that scientists use their intuition, creativity, and judgment to make sense of data and formulate new theories. - **The importance of commitment:** Polanyi emphasizes the role of commitment in scientific inquiry. He argues that scientists must be committed to their research and willing to take risks in order to make progress. **"Personal Knowledge" has been highly influential in philosophy of science, cognitive science, and other fields.** It has been praised for its originality, depth, and insights into the nature of knowledge. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of clarity and for its subjective approach to knowledge.