Single Idea 6792

[catalogued under 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 1. Observation]

Full Idea

If we cannot know the truth of theories without observation, and we cannot know the truth of observations without theories, where do we start?

Gist of Idea

If theories need observation, and observations need theories, how do we start?

Source

Alexander Bird (Philosophy of Science [1998], Ch.5)

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.174


A Reaction

See Idea 6793. You make a few observations, under the illusion that they are objective, then formulate a promising theory, then go back and deconstruct the observations, then tighten up the theory, and so on.

Related Idea

Idea 6793 People can break into the circle of virtue and good action, by chance, or with help [Aristotle]