Theoretical Developments and Position of Philosophy of Science in the 21st Century: A Systematic Literature Review
Keywords:
Philosophy of science, interdisciplinary, ethics of knowledge, higher education research policyAbstract
This article examines the development and position of the philosophy of science within the dynamics of 21st-century knowledge, characterized by rapid technological advancement, interdisciplinarity, the dominance of big data, and the growing emphasis on applied science. The aim of this study is to assess the critical relevance of the philosophy of science in both global and Indonesian contexts. Using a conceptual approach and a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of primary and secondary literature from 2020 to 2025, this study finds that the philosophy of science has not been marginalized but has undergone a transformation of its role into embedded critical reflection. Global analysis indicates a shift from the philosophy of science toward philosophy in science, particularly in addressing the complexity of big data, the validity of interdisciplinary knowledge, and the ethical dilemmas of new technologies. Analysis of the Indonesian literature reveals critical awareness regarding reductionism and social relevance, yet also uncovers gaps in the internalization of philosophical perspectives into research policies, curricula, and research ethics governance. These findings imply the need to strengthen the science ecosystem through the integration of the philosophy of science into research policy, higher education curricula, and adaptive ethics forums, in order to support reflective evaluation, foster critical scientists, and strengthen research governance in the 21st century.
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