Single Idea 15236

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / G. Scientific Philosophy / 2. Positivism]

Full Idea

Positivism is the doctrine that the content of scientific propositions is exhausted by what can be immediately experienced.

Gist of Idea

Positivism says science only refers to immediate experiences

Source

Harré,R./Madden,E.H. (Causal Powers [1975], 2.I)

Book Reference

Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.28


A Reaction

The simple thing missing from positivism is inference to the best explanation. Also, if you actually rule out other propositions as 'meaningless', you rule out speculation, which would certainly cripple science.