Single Idea 6782

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / G. Scientific Philosophy / 1. Aims of Science]

Full Idea

Realism….is the only philosophy science which does not make the success of science a miracle.

Gist of Idea

Realism is the only philosophy of science that doesn't make the success of science a miracle

Source

Hilary Putnam (works [1980]), quoted by Alexander Bird - Philosophy of Science Ch.4

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.141


A Reaction

This was from his earlier work; he became more pragmatist and anti-realist later. Personally I approve of the remark. The philosophy of science must certainly offer an explanation for its success. Truth seems the obvious explanation.

Related Idea

Idea 6280 Realism is a theory, which explains the convergence of science and the success of language [Putnam]