Ideology and Science

Question 1

What does Popper mean by ‘Falsification’?

Answer 1

Where scientists set out to prove a statement wrong.

Question 2

What are the four CUDOS norms?

Answer 2

Communism; universalism; disinterestedness; organised scepticism – all are norms to which
scientists must adhere when pursuing scientific knowledge.

Question 3

In what sense is witchcraft among the Azande a closed belief system?

Answer 3

It cannot be overturned by evidence because the believers accept basic assumptions that
cannot be challenged.

Question 4

Why does the case of Dr Vlikovsky suggest that science may be a closed belief system?

Answer 4

Because scientists reacted to his new theory by immediate rejection, rather than testing it
via scientific means.

Question 5

Explain Mannheim’s distinction between ‘Ideological Thought’ and ‘Utopian Thought’.

Answer 5

Ideological thought justifies the status quo; utopian thought justifies social change.

Question 6

What is false consciousness?

Answer 6

Ways of thinking (of the oppressed) that are the product of ideology (of the ruling class).

Question 7

According to Mannheim, why is there a need for a ‘Free-Floating Intelligentsia’?

Answer 7

Because they would not be attached to any particular interest group and therefore could
represent the interests of society as a whole.

Question 8

What does Gramsci see as the two sides of workers’ dual consciousness?

Answer 8

Ruling‐class ideology and consciousness arising from exploitation and struggle.