The Ethical Paradox of Science: Between the Absolute and Solidarity

The article focuses on the problem of building a consistent ethics of science, capable to ensure the solidarity of the scientific community, on the one hand, and the critical thinking of the scientist in search for new true knowledge, on the other. The lack of pragmatic legitimization of science goes hand in hand with the indistinguishability of the reliable basis for scientific vocation, with the difficulty of rational articulation of moral and epistemic intuitions. This cannot be facilitated by the modern myth of science, which has the features of rationalistic technocracism. The internal and external history of science as a profession provides no explanation or justification for scientific vocation as an embodiment of an existential choice. The latter is understood only as a prehistoric, residual phenomenon similar to a sacrifice or a ritual gift. Recognized at the basis of all initial exchanges, the gift demonstrates its ambivalent character in science. It ensures the existence of science as a public good, which is also a heavy burden for those who are unable to follow its moral example. Both the intrascientific and external ethics of science are thus a challenge for the scientific community and society as a whole.

Keywords

Authors

References