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Single Idea 6763

[from 'Philosophy of Science' by Alexander Bird, in 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 1. Laws of Nature ]

Full Idea

Wegener's theory of continental drift was only accepted when the theory of plate tectonics was developed, providing a mechanism. While some correlations exist for parapsychology, lack of plausible mechanisms leaves it as speculation.

Clarification

'Parapsychology' is supernatural actions of the mind

Gist of Idea

Parapsychology is mere speculation, because it offers no mechanisms for its working

Source

Alexander Bird (Philosophy of Science [1998], Ch.2)

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.88


A Reaction

But parapsychology is not even on a par with Wegener's speculation, because his was consistent with known physical laws, whereas parapsychology flatly contradicts them. The so-called correlations are also not properly established.