HPS100H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Scientific Method, Formal Science, Superstring Theory
10 Apr 2018
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1: there is proof in science, but in limited number of cases: Acceptance: a theory is said to be accepted if it is taken as the best available description of its object (something physical, something social, formal). It is possible to accept one theory : two incompatible theories can be simultaneously used, pursued, but not accepted. Use: a theory is said to be used if it is taken as an adequate tool for practical application, use a different theory in pra(cid:272)ti(cid:272)e , from the practical perspective, there is an accumulation of useful calculating tools. Old tools do not necessarily get replaced by new ones: the only requirement is that a new tool must be useful in one way or another. Theory assessment: two theories, we need a method of appraisal to determine which theory is better in light of the available evidence.
