How is philosophy possible as a science?

pp. 10-17

in: Ilkka Niiniluoto, Is science progressive?, Berlin, Springer, 1984

Abstract

Philosophy is in many ways an extraordinary discipline. It differs from all other 'special sciences' through its history, methods, object and results. The position of philosophy is unique within the system of sciences and more generally within the whole human culture. Immanuel Kant's famous question — how is philosophy possible as a science? — is a permanently topical theme on which all researchers, teachers, and practitioners of philosophy have to find a personal standpoint.¹