Introduction

This opening chapter presents the main thrust of the book, which delves into the intricate relationship between history and philosophy of science by focusing on the evolution of historical epistemology as a methodological approach to understanding scientific knowledge. It traces the trajectory of historical epistemology from its roots in a French philosophical context to its contemporary manifestations within Anglophone debates. By examining key figures such as Bachelard, Canguilhem, Foucault, and Hacking, the book elucidates the diverse methodologies and conceptual frameworks employed in historical epistemology. This chapter highlights tensions and contradictions within the field, particularly in reconciling historical contextualization with philosophical analysis. Through a comparative analysis of French and Anglophone approaches, the author explores the implications of presentismpresentism, anti-empiricism, and the notion of scientific stylesstyle in shaping our understanding of scientific knowledge. Ultimately, this introduction offers insights into the ongoing dialogue between history and philosophy of science, shedding light on the challenges and possibilities of integrating these disciplines.