From Symbiosis to Specialization

A Historiographical Analysis and Methodological Proposition for Integrated History and Philosophy of Science

Abstract

The relationship between history of science and philosophy of science, which constitutes the field of history and philosophy of science (HPS), has undergone significant transformations. This paper presents a dual analysis of this evolution. Firstly, it provides a brief historiographical review of the shifting dynamics between the two sides of the aisle. Secondly, it employs a bibliometric analysis of scholarly databases – Dimensions and OpenAlex – to map the field’s contemporary landscape. The findings reveal two dominant trends: the proliferation of the case study method and a marked increase in academic specialization into sub-fields (e.g., HP of Physics, HP of Biology). Finally, this paper proposes a methodological framework, the “epistemic gradient”, which reframes the relationship between historical particularism and philosophical generalism, offering a practical model for conducting integrated HPS research.