Single Idea 5748

[catalogued under 19. Language / A. Nature of Meaning / 5. Meaning as Verification]

Full Idea

Many philosophers now concede that it is rational to accept a proposition not because we can directly verify it but because it is supported by considerations of simplicity, theoretical utility, explanatory power and/or intuitive plausibility.

Gist of Idea

We accept unverifiable propositions because of simplicity, utility, explanation and plausibility

Source

Joseph Melia (Modality [2003], Ch.5)

Book Reference

Melia,Joseph: 'Modality' [Acumen 2003], p.101


A Reaction

This suggests how the weakness of logical positivism may have led us to the concept of epistemic virtues (such as those listed), which are, of course, largely a matter of community consensus, just as the moral virtues are.