Scientific Novelty and Cultural Innovation

Abstract

This essay attempts a schematic analysis of the factors that bring about cultural innovation in the body of knowledge resulting from modern scientific rationality, that is, knowledge tested methodologically on a similar empirical-theoretical basis to that of natural, social and human sciences. The argument is developed according to the formal and material character of the topic itself. According to its formal character, elements peculiar to scientific activity are presented and consideration given to how these affect humanity. According to its material character, on the other hand, the human implications of science are presented through an analysis of the paradigm shifts typical of revolutionary moments in science.