Single Idea 22189

[catalogued under 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 6. Falsification]

Full Idea

There is no sense in abandoning a successful theory if you have nothing to replace it with.

Gist of Idea

Why abandon a theory if you don't have a better one?

Source

Geoffrey Gorham (Philosophy of Science [2009], 2)

Book Reference

Gorham,Geoffrey: 'Philosophy of Science' [One World 2009], p.38


A Reaction

This is also a problem for infererence to the best explanation. What to do if your best explanation is not very good? The simple message is do not rush to dump a theory when faced with an anomaly.