The problem of ‘human-dimensionality’ of scientific methodology

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the value criterion of scientific knowledge arising from the principle of ‘human dimension’ of scientific methodology in the post-non-classical paradigm of modern science. Unlike the classical period, which strives for the independence of the result of scientific knowledge from the cognizing subject, science since the beginning of the 20th century has been forced to recognize not only the inextricability of the connection between the result of cognition and human cognitive abilities, but also the relationship of science with all forms of spiritual life of society. Nevertheless, with an ever-increasing interest in religion and spiritual issues in solving practical problems, the determining factor for the human community is the ‘scientific’ ‘rational’ criterion, be it bioethical problems or building models of the structure of the universe. We still think in terms of the ‘dual truth’ of Western medieval philosophy. The article attempts to use the term ‘human-dimensionality’ to substantiate the determining character of human spiritual nature (including cognitive abilities) in relation to the knowledge gained. The problematic field of the article is as follows: since science is ‘human-dimensional’, i.e. determined by the value characteristics of the cognizing personality, what, in turn, should be the criterion of ‘human-dimensionality’? There is an answer to this question in Orthodox anthropology: man is the image and likeness of God. According to the author, only with the assimilation and methodological application of such a moral criterion to any cognitive process is it possible to obtain true knowledge in every sphere of human spiritual activity.