Research: Giulio Preti and the construction of a scientific philosophy of shared truth
The research project aims to provide a coherent theoretical reconstruction of Giulio Preti’s thought, with the goal of developing, from his critical rationalism, a theory of shared truth within a “scientific” philosophical framework.
Building on his Banfian training and engagement with logical empiricism, the study examines the main stages of Preti’s intellectual journey. Through the analysis of his key works - from "Idealismo e positivismo" to "Praxis ed empirismo", and up to "Retorica e logica. Le due culture" - the project highlights how Preti understands philosophy not as foundational or dogmatic knowledge, but as a critical and constructive practice. Philosophy, in his view, clarifies meaning, mediates between science and values, and fosters cultural integration.
In this perspective, truth is not an absolute or merely formal concept, but the result of an intersubjective process, historically situated and guided by shared standards of rationality. Central to Preti’s thought is the notion of praxis, understood as a constitutive dimension of rationality: knowledge is a regulative and constructive act aimed at critically transforming experience and generating meaning.
The expected outcome is the development of a theory of shared truth, grounded in praxis and able to contribute to contemporary debates on rationality and the civic role of philosophy. The project also situates Preti within the European context of the twentieth century, highlighting the innovative role of his critical rationalism in postwar Italian philosophy.