Theoretical Virtues in Science: Uncovering Reality Through Theory

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Synopsis
What are the features of a good scientific theory?

Samuel Schindler's book revisits this classical question in the philosophy of science and develops new answers to it. Theoretical virtues matter not only for choosing theories 'to work with', but also for what we are justified in believing: only if the theories we possess are good ones (qua virtues) can we be confident that our theories' claims about nature are actually correct. Recent debates have focused rather narrowly on a theory's capacity to predict new phenomena successfully, but Schindler argues that the justification for this focus is thin. He discusses several other theory properties such as testability, accuracy, and consistency, and highlights the importance of simplicity and coherence. Using detailed historical case studies and careful philosophical analysis, Schindler challenges the received view of theoretical virtues and advances arguments for the view that science uncovers reality through theory.

Provides a detailed and comprehensive treatment of the features that characterize good scientific theories.

Puts forward four new arguments for scientific realism, advancing current debates.

Challenges the received view of theoretical virtues and addresses issues including demarcation and methodology.

Copyright:
2018

Book Details

Book Quality:
Publisher Quality
ISBN-13:
9781108395052
Related ISBNs:
9781108422260, 9781108422260
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press
Date of Addition:
Copyrighted By:
Samuel Schindler
Adult content:
No
Language:
English
Has Image Descriptions:
No
Categories:
Nonfiction, Science, Philosophy
Submitted By:
Bookshare Staff
Usage Restrictions:
This is a copyrighted book.

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