This thesis seeks to examine the Concept of Right Action in Karl Popper's social and moral philosophy. This is attempted through the study of his theory of rationality. Through the examination of his theory of 'critical rationalism', it has been established that a right action is a rational action, that is, an action based on a critical assessment of its possible consequences. His theory of falsifiability, which is fundamental to his theory of critical rationalization and which advocates that falsification as opposed to verification, is a true test of a theory, is also examined, in order to see whether and how it can be applied to social and moral problems. In this context it has been established that in social and political realms also, one works through theories, ideas and hypotheses which can be tested. This method is considered to be a rational and scientific method and is advocated as an alternative to authoritarian and totalitarian methods. In order to determine the viability of K. Popper's proposals, his critique of historicism is also examined. Through the study of these critiques, it has been established that historicist modes of thought and action tend to lead to totalitarian and authoritarian political and social systems, and the consequent violence. A system based on critical rationalism is considered to be the only alternative. In examining these critiques we also raised the question whether religion and tradition have any place in Popper's system. It has been shown that the critical understanding and use of tradition is fundamental and necessary. We have also shown that Popper is not anti-religion and that religion and rationality are not incompatible, when we consider that religion is not merely a metaphysical system but also a social system, i.e., a body of ethics and a way of life. A rational and a secular attitude and a religious attitude are not mutually exclusive. / Thesis / Master of Arts (MA)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:mcmaster.ca/oai:macsphere.mcmaster.ca:11375/15780 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Mehdi, Subuhi |
| Contributors | Greenspan, L., Religious Studies |
| Source Sets | McMaster University |
| Language | en_US |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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