The Counter-Revolution of Science

Historical Context and Significance

The book «The Counter-Revolution of Science» by Friedrich von Hayek is an important contribution to the critique of positivism and the scientific approach in the social sciences. Hayek opposes the idea that the methods of the natural sciences can be directly applied to the study of society. He argues that attempts to subject the social sciences to strict scientific methods lead to totalitarianism and the restriction of individual freedom. The book has had a significant impact on the development of liberal thought and economic theory, highlighting the importance of individualism and spontaneous order in society. It also contributed to discussions about the role of science and technology in governing society, becoming an important text for understanding the limitations of the scientific method in social contexts.