Critical rationalists much too narrow contribution to Der Positivismusstreit: Alternative political theories which conform to fallibilist, individualist methodologies were needed then and are needed today

Abstract

The very dubious results of Der Positivismusstreit are explained as consequences of a methodological breakdown between two schools. But this debate is nevertheless relevant for today’s discussions due to its historical role in setting today’s framework. The methodological breakdown between the schools is overcome to a partial degree by presuming some overlap in methods. The misunderstandings of the past are set in today’s context, where critical realists have abandoned much of their previous doctrines, and the failure of critical rationalists to acquire more influence than they have is explained as in large part due to their failure to avoid identification with conservative economic-cum-political theory, above all that of Hayek. This mistake is corrected by explaining how improved critical rationalist methods are consistent with a variety of political alternatives and may be used to critically examine them.