How is it possible for a historical activity, such as scientific activity, to produce trans-historical truths, independent of history, detached from all bonds with both place and time and therefore eternally and universally valid?
Bourdieu, Science of Science (2004), 1
The Conclusion stands back and asks what the consequences are of recognizing the reality of the Scientific Revolution. Chapter 15 looks at the key arguments on which the relativists depend and shows that they do not do what is claimed for them. Chapter 16 addresses the claim that any history of the Scientific Revolution must be Whig or teleological history, by arguing that the opponents of Whig history have defined history in such a way that change cannot be discussed. Chapter 17 ends the book by looking at Montaigne’s scepticism and asking whether we are entitled to claim that we know more than he did.