31 ideas
3859 | We do not wish merely to predict, we also want to explain [Newton-Smith] |
3870 | The real problem of science is how to choose between possible explanations [Newton-Smith] |
3853 | For science to be rational, we must explain scientific change rationally [Newton-Smith] |
3855 | Critics attack positivist division between theory and observation [Newton-Smith] |
3854 | Positivists hold that theoretical terms change, but observation terms don't [Newton-Smith] |
3869 | More truthful theories have greater predictive power [Newton-Smith] |
3861 | Theories generate infinite truths and falsehoods, so they cannot be used to assess probability [Newton-Smith] |
21495 | Theoretical and practical politics are both concerned with the best lives for individuals [Russell] |
14534 | Shoemaker moved from properties as powers to properties bestowing powers [Shoemaker, by Mumford/Anjum] |
3867 | De re necessity arises from the way the world is [Newton-Smith] |
3872 | We must assess the truth of beliefs in identifying them [Newton-Smith] |
3857 | Defeat relativism by emphasising truth and reference, not meaning [Newton-Smith] |
3858 | A full understanding of 'yellow' involves some theory [Newton-Smith] |
3862 | All theories contain anomalies, and so are falsified! [Newton-Smith] |
3863 | The anomaly of Uranus didn't destroy Newton's mechanics - it led to Neptune's discovery [Newton-Smith] |
3864 | Anomalies are judged against rival theories, and support for the current theory [Newton-Smith] |
3865 | Why should it matter whether or not a theory is scientific? [Newton-Smith] |
3866 | If theories are really incommensurable, we could believe them all [Newton-Smith] |
3871 | Explaining an action is showing that it is rational [Newton-Smith] |
21517 | Individuals need creativity, reverence for others, and self-respect [Russell] |
21523 | We would not want UK affairs to be settled by a world parliament [Russell] |
21522 | Democracy is inadequate without a great deal of devolution [Russell] |
21521 | Anarchy does not maximise liberty [Russell] |
21528 | Groups should be autonomous, with a neutral authority as arbitrator [Russell] |
21527 | On every new question the majority is always wrong at first [Russell] |
21526 | Unfortunately ordinary voters can't detect insincerity [Russell] |
21525 | When the state is the only employer, there is no refuge from the prejudices of other people [Russell] |
21518 | Men unite in pursuit of material things, and idealise greed as part of group loyalty [Russell] |
21519 | We need security and liberty, and then encouragement of creativity [Russell] |
21524 | The right to own land gives a legal right to a permanent income [Russell] |
21520 | That our heaven is a dull place reflects the misery of excessive work in life [Russell] |