Abstract

A topical rather than systematic consideration of some key methodological rather than substantive notions in the philosophy of science. The form and strategy of scientific inquiry and explanation, confirmation of hypotheses, laws, and theories are the mainstays of Hempel's discussion. The treatment is lucid in the way an introduction should be. The chapter on concept formation contains a discussion of operational definitions which is especially well done. Perhaps the only drawback is that the student reading this introductory text will not get as much of an impression as would be desirable that there are issues as well as topics in the philosophy of science.—E. A. R.