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Single Idea 17405

[from 'The Periodic Table' by Eric R. Scerri, in 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 4. Prediction ]

Full Idea

A theorist may have designed his theory to fit the facts, but is it not equally possible for observers to be influenced by a theory in their report of experimental facts?

Gist of Idea

If a theory can be fudged, so can observations

Source

Eric R. Scerri (The Periodic Table [2007], 05 'Power')

Book Reference

Scerri,Eric R.: 'The Periodic Table' [OUP 2007], p.150


A Reaction

This is in reply to Lipton's claim that prediction is better than accommodation because of the 'fudging' problem. The reply is that you might fudge to achieve a prediction. If it was correct, that wouldn't avoid the charge of fudging.

Related Idea

Idea 16857 Predictions are best for finding explanations, because mere accommodations can be fudged [Lipton]