The proving power of the intellect or the senses was questioned by the skeptics more than two thousand years ago; but they were browbeaten into confusion by the glory of Newtonian physics.
Imre LakatosThe classical example of a successful research programme is Newton's gravitational theory: possibly the most successful research programme ever.
Imre LakatosPhilosophy of science without history of science is empty; history of science without philosophy of science is blind.
Imre LakatosThe great scientific achievements are research programmes which can be evaluated in terms of progressive and degenerative problemshifts; and scientific revolutions consist of one research programme superceding (overtaking in progress) another. This methodology offers a new rational reconstruction of science.
Imre Lakatos