Testing Scientific Theories Book Overview

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In scientific antirealism, why must unobservable concepts like electrons and genes present undeniable physical evidence?

To be accepted as real. (correct)

To be considered true.

To adhere to specific structures.

To ensure conformity with naive realism.

What is the essence of science according to the text?

Everything presented is factual.

Theories have to be tested for confirmation. (correct)

Unobservable concepts cannot be verified.

Only observable concepts are real.

Which epistemic view of science believes that the Universe, including unobservable concepts, is real regardless of how it is represented?

Scientific Realism (correct)

Bayesian Confirmation Theory

Deductive Reasoning

Epistemological Anarchism

What does entity realism state about existence?

Existence is proven by the development of tools. Signup and view all the answers

How does scientific antirealism view unobservable concepts in science?

As inherently unverified Signup and view all the answers

According to constructive empiricism, what does science aim to provide?

A true story of the Universe based only on observable aspects Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of scientific theories according to instrumentalism?

To serve as instruments for solving problems and making predictions Signup and view all the answers

What is the key argument put forth by social constructivism regarding scientific knowledge?

Every aspect of scientific knowledge is a result of collective observations Signup and view all the answers

How can reductionism be understood in terms of scientific theories?

As a thesis about ontologies, laws, theories, or linguistic expressions Signup and view all the answers

Why has theoretical pluralism been criticized in the context of science?

It hinders the examination of inter-theoretic relations Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the controversial topic surrounding the unity or disunity of science?

Whether science is a unified or fragmented discipline Signup and view all the answers

According to Karl Popper, what is the main issue with concluding something to be true even before testing it?

It leads to irrelevant hypotheses. Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher proposed the Bayesian Confirmation Theory that provides numerical support to hypotheses?

Rev. Thomas Bayes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of Deductive Reasoning according to Karl Popper?

It solidifies the existence of hypotheses without testing. Signup and view all the answers

Which method emphasizes the importance of quantitative data and rigorous experimentation in determining conclusions?

Hypothetico-deductive method Signup and view all the answers

According to Paul Feyerabend, why does he advocate for Epistemological Anarchism?

It allows for flexibility in scientific approaches. Signup and view all the answers

What does Karl Popper suggest happens when an experiment's outcome is falsified?

The hypothesis is also false. Signup and view all the answers