Single Idea 22185

[catalogued under 14. Science / B. Scientific Theories / 5. Commensurability]

Full Idea

If two things are incommensurable they cannot be incompatible.

Gist of Idea

Two things can't be incompatible if they are incommensurable

Source

Samir Okasha (Philosophy of Science: Very Short Intro (2nd ed) [2016], 5)

Book Reference

Okasha,Samir: 'Philosophy of Science: very short intro (2nd ed)' [OUP 2016], p.80


A Reaction

Kuhn had claimed that two rival theories are incompatible, which forces the paradigm shift. He can't stop the slide off into total relativism. The point is there cannot be a conflict if there cannot even be a comparison.