Reason in Revolt: Marxist Philosophy and Modern Science

At the beginning of the 21st century, science and philosophy are at the crossroads. The achievements of science and technology in the previous century are unparalleled in history. They provide the po­tential for the solution of all the problems faced by the planet, and equally for its total destruction. Allegedly scientific theories are being used to “prove” that criminality is caused, not by social condi­tions, but by a “criminal gene.” Black people are alleged to be dis­advantaged, not because of discrimination, but because of their genetic make-up. Similar arguments are used for poor people, sin­gle mothers, women, and so on. Of course, such “science” is highly convenient for right wing politicians intent on ruthlessly cutting wel­fare. In the field of theoretical physics and cosmology there is a growing tendency towards mysticism. The “Big Bang” theory of the origin of the universe is being used to justify the existence of a Creator, as in the book of Genesis. For the first time in centuries, science appears to lend credence to religious obscurantism. Yet that is only one side of the story.