Abstract
Since the beginning of the twentieth century, philosophers of science have asked, “what kind of thing is a scientific theory?” The logical positivists answered: a scientific theory is a mathematical theory, plus an empirical interpretation of that theory. They also assumed that a mathematical theory is specified by a set of axioms in a formal language. Later twentieth-century philosophers questioned this account, arguing instead that a scientific theory need not include a mathematical component or that the mathematical component need not be given by a set of axioms in a formal language. In this chapter, the author surveys the various accounts of scientific theories in twentieth-century philosophy, trying to remove some misconceptions and clear the path for future research.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
