Scientism and Values.pdf - Ludwig von Mises Institute

212 Scientism and Values
the conformity achieved by "Organization Man" and the modern
"deification of the organization"; Boulding 25 similarly identifies
the problems posed by the "Organizational Revolution." Hoffer's
26 "True Believer" is craving for authority at any price in
order to fill his emotional vacuum. Each of these descriptions may
be objectionable; but it seems there is a basic phenomenon labelled
in different ways.
Apparently, "scientism" plays, a predominant role in this development.
Superficially, the scientistic character of Western "civilization"
(the term used in the technical sense proposed by Spengler)
is caused by a prevalence of science and technology unparalleled in
past cultures. The machine, instead of saving labor, becomes man's
master, making him an automaton and small wheel in the great
mechanism. However, the problem has become much more subtle
in America and parts of Europe. Automation and related developments
tend to save man from becoming a slave of the machine and
will undoubtedly do so even more in the future. The problem
appears to be shifting from physical to psychological technology,
making the basic question: Is a scientifically controlled society desirable?
In Hayek's terms, "collectivism" now is not a theoretical,
but a practical, issue; the fictitious entities characteristic of the
scientistic approach have become more "real" and powerful than
in any other period.
Conditioned-reflex methods, "hidden persuaders," "brainwashing,"
subliminal motivation, and allied techniques form the basis
of psychological coercion and control unknown in previous history.
Hayek has made it- clear that this problem, was recognized by
early positivists: Comte already foresaw, even though he derided,
a "despotism founded on science." 27
Absolutism, authoritarianism, and demagogues are phenomena
ubiquitous in history. However, coercion imposed from outside,
be it ever so ruthless,' necessarily breeds rebels, nonconformists,
and heretics, as they have existed in all times of history. Dictators
can be disposed of and, as a matter of historical record, usually
come to a bad end. Only coercion from inside and by psychological
means can impos,e total control. Replacing old-fashioned rhetoric