Does Science Give Us Truth?: Correspondence Theory of Truth and Scientific Realism, The
The correspondence theory of truth is considered the default position about truth. If a statement is true it is because it corresponds to some feature, some reality in the world independent of our ideas abut it. An appro..
Does Science Give Us Truth?: Instrumental Side of Pragmatism, The
Pragmatic criteria guided early creatures in evolutionary history toward those activities that would enhance their survival. Similarly, in its application to science, pragmatism or instrumentalism as its sometimes called..
Does Science Give Us Truth?: Pragmatism Theory of Truth, The
A third theory of truth known as pragmatism considers success to be the main marker of truth. In contrast with intellectualists who view truth as a stagnant property, pragmatists test the performance of a belief by seein..
Does Science Give Us Truth?: Quantum Mechanics Challenge to Theories of Truth: Bohr and the Instrumentalist View
One of the sharpest debates between the realist and instrumentalist views of science comes in relation to quantum mechanics, the theory of atomic and subatomic phenomena which led to breakthroughs in atomic energy, laser..
Does Science Give Us Truth?: Quantum Mechanics Challenge to Theories of Truth: Einstein and the Realist View
The realist side of the quantum mechanics debate is headed by Albert Einstein, the most eminent scientist of the era. Einstein proposes that if quantum theory breaks down categories such as space and time we should look ..
Does Science Give Us Truth?: Single Truth?, A
What is truth? Both philosophy and science seek to find the answer to that question, and although each theory proposed contributes a vital perspective, none can cover each and every situation. It is important not to get ..
Does the End Justify the Means?: Utilitarian Principle of Ethics, The
Construction of the Bakun Dam is part of a major power plant project deep in the rainforest of Borneo. Although over 30 villages must be evacuated, 10,000 people moved, and 150,000 acres of rainforest destroyed the gover..
Does the Mind Shape the World?: Does the Mind Shape the World?
Immanuel Kant, born in 1724 sought to resolve a controversy that had been brewing for over a century. Rationalists argued that knowledge is based on reasoning inside our minds. Empirists disagreed saying that all knowled..
Dualist or Pluralist?
Philosopher Hilary Putnam calls himself a pluralist rather than a dualist, because he doesn't think there are just two kinds of properties in the world. He goes on to talk about the trend towards reductionist thinking, a..
Elbow Room
Philosopher Daniel Dennett talks about his book, Elbow Room. He notes that elbow room, the idea of freedom as maneuverability, is a metaphor for free will. The real threats to this form of free will, according to Profess..