Against Reification

The video discusses the importance of valuing knowledge forms that involve intentionality and tradition, critiquing the tendency to treat social science as a natural science. It highlights the impact of social science on governance and advocates for a shift towards humanistic knowledge that recognizes people as intentional agents. The speaker encourages open-ended thinking and a humanistic perspective rooted in freedom and meaningful choice.

What does the speaker suggest is a problem with current social sciences?

• They focus too much on individual behavior.

• They are too focused on historical events.

• They rely on reified social concepts like class and bureaucracy.

• They ignore the role of technology in society.

According to the speaker, what is a consequence of treating social science as a natural science?

• It enhances the understanding of human emotions.

• It leads to more accurate predictions.

• It causes a disconnect from historical intentionality.

• It results in solutions that are universally applicable.

What does the speaker propose as an alternative to current forms of knowledge?

• A focus on technological advancements.

• A more humanistic approach that considers intentionality.

• A return to traditional scientific methods.

• An emphasis on economic factors.

How does the speaker view the role of historical traditions in understanding human behavior?

• As a minor factor compared to economic influences.

• As a crucial element in understanding intentionality.

• As a hindrance to scientific progress.

• As irrelevant to modern society.

What analogy does the speaker use to explain their perspective on changing forms of knowledge?

• Marx's view of communism and capitalism.

• The development of modern technology.

• The rise of digital communication.

• The evolution of natural sciences.