Hasok Chang

Hasok Chang is the Hans Rausing Professor of History and Philosophy of Science and Head of Department at the University of Cambridge's Department of History and Philosophy of Science within the Faculty of Human, Social, and Political Science. A prominent scholar with over 1,500 followers on Academia.edu and extensive publication record, Chang has established himself as a leading figure in the integrated study of history and philosophy of science.

Chang's research focuses on the history and philosophy of chemistry and physics from the 18th century onward, with special emphasis on scientific practice, realism, pluralism, and pragmatism. His work often bridges historical investigation with philosophical analysis, particularly in examining how scientific concepts develop and persist through time. He is known for his experimental approach to historical science, having personally recreated historical experiments on boiling water and electrochemistry. His current work includes completing a book manuscript titled How Does A Battery Work?

Analysis of Chang's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on scientific pluralism, realism, and the philosophy of scientific practice. His work demonstrates a distinctive approach that integrates historical case studies with philosophical reflection, particularly on how scientific concepts evolve while maintaining continuity. He has made significant contributions to understanding the Chemical Revolution, the history of temperature measurement, and the philosophy of chemistry.

• Abraham Pais Prize Lecture at the American Physical Society 2021 March Meeting
• Wilkins-Bernal-Medawar Prize Lecture at the Royal Society (2016)
• Fernando Gil International Prize (2013)
• Lakatos Award for Inventing Temperature: Measurement and Scientific Progress (2007)

Chang has played a significant role in academic service, including serving as President of the British Society for the History of Science (2012-14), Governing Board member of the Philosophy of Science Association (2018-21), and Second Vice-President of the International Union of History and Philosophy of Science and Technology (2021-). He is also a co-founder of the Society for Philosophy of Science in Practice and the UK Integrated HPS Network. His notable publications include Realism for Realistic People: A New Pragmatist Philosophy of Science (2022), Is Water H2O? Evidence, Realism and Pluralism (2012), and Inventing Temperature: Measurement and Scientific Progress (2004).