Single Idea 22184

[catalogued under 14. Science / B. Scientific Theories / 5. Commensurability]

Full Idea

The doctrine of incommensurability stems from Kuhn's belief that scientific concepts derive their meaning from the theory in which they play a role.

Gist of Idea

Incommensurability assumes concepts get their meaning from within the theory

Source

report of Thomas S. Kuhn (Structure of Scientific Revolutions (2nd ed) [1962]) by Samir Okasha - Philosophy of Science: Very Short Intro (2nd ed) 5

Book Reference

Okasha,Samir: 'Philosophy of Science: very short intro (2nd ed)' [OUP 2016], p.79


A Reaction

Quine was the source of this. Kripke's direct reference theory was meant to be the answer.