> Unfortunately, the "science wars" pits > postmodernists against a group whose > Marxist credentials are dubious at best. > In the initial euphoria over seeing hot-air > artists like Stanley Aronowitz and Jacques > Derrida getting their comeuppance, it was > assumed (including by me) that Sokal was some > kind of Marxist. In reality, his understanding > of the role of science comes straight out of the > liberal "marketplace of ideas" arena. By his own > admission, he has never read Gramsci, Richard > Lewontin or Richard Levins.
Well Louis, I had not even known about Lewontin and Levins until about a year ago or so (How would I have? They are some American scientists whom I came to know about only after my participation in some American lists) and am not that worried about Sokal's Marxist credentials. I don't even like the term "Marxism" for the same reason I wouldn't have liked the term "Newtonism", although I tried to understand the methods and philosophies of both and still do, keeping in mind that there are other methods and philosophies too. I find using these terms unfair to all the others who contributed to "Marxism" and/or "Newtonism". Whether Sokal's understanding of the role of science comes straight out of the liberal "marketplace of ideas" arena or not, as Romain was saying, their "remarkably measured judgement with respect to the dishonesty of people they criticize" deserves respect. At least, they were brave enough to "transgress the boundaries". This is how I see it. Best, Sabri
