Positives Reviewers largely praise the book for offering a unique glimpse into the intellectual and personal lives of prominent philosophers like Imre Lakatos and Paul Feyerabend, alongside their contemporaries. The correspondence section is particularly highlighted for revealing the "workaday lives" of these thinkers, discussing everything from personal anecdotes to their philosophical concerns in an unprompted and candid manner. Many found this section "enormously interesting," "witty and fun," and "utterly charming," providing a fresh and often surprising portrait of figures like Feyerabend. The book is also lauded for shedding light on the underlying ideas behind Lakatos's published works, offering a deeper understanding of his thought processes. The initial sections, comprising scholarly papers and lectures, are commended for their good analysis and contribution to the historical approach of the philosophy of science, making the overall read rewarding and enjoyable for many.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book receives criticism for its perceived lack of focus and uneven quality. Several reviewers found significant portions of the correspondence to be "really boring" or holding "little interest" beyond a few amusing anecdotes. A common complaint is that the book feels "confused in terms of subject matter," starting as a philosophical analysis but veering into personal lives, politics, and academic struggles in the letters, which some felt added "very little light on the philosophy of science proper." This shift in content leads to a "herky-jerky" composition. Some critics also argue that the main philosophical arguments presented in the book have been expressed better elsewhere, leading to the perception that much of the content acts as "filler."
Conclusion In conclusion, the book is often seen as comprising two distinct parts: a scholarly examination of the philosophy of science and a collection of personal correspondence. While some find the book's structure disjointed, others recommend treating these sections as independent, each offering significant value. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in the history of modern philosophy, the personal relationships and intellectual development of philosophers like Lakatos and Feyerabend, or the specific historical context of the philosophy of science. Those seeking a deep dive into the unconventional thinking and the human side of these influential figures will likely find it a rewarding read, especially if they are already familiar with the broader philosophical landscape of the era.
