Shech, Elay (2022) Darwinian-Selectionist Explanation, Radical Theory Change, and the Observable-Unobservable Dichotomy. [Preprint]

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Abstract

In his recent 2018 book, Resisting Scientific Realism, K. Brad Wray provides a detailed, full-fledged defense of anti-realism about science. In this paper, I argue against the two main claims that constitute Wray’s positive and novel argument for his position, viz., his suggested Darwinian-selectionist explanation of the success of science and his skepticism about unobservables based on radical theory change. My goal is not wholly negative though. Instead, I aim to identify the type of work that an anti-realist like Wray would need to undertake in order to further substantiate their position, viz., taking a stance on inductive inference and support, and the type of realist and anti-realist positions that seem viable.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Shech, Elay ezs0038@auburn.edu 0000-0002-3863-5058
Keywords:	Scientific Realism; Selectionist Explanation; Induction
Subjects:	General Issues > Evidence General Issues > Realism/Anti-realism
Depositing User:	Dr. Elay Shech
Date Deposited:	21 Jun 2022 12:55
Last Modified:	21 Jun 2022 12:55
Item ID:	20775
DOI or Unique Handle:	10.1080/02698595.2022.2092824
Subjects:	General Issues > Evidence General Issues > Realism/Anti-realism
Date:	June 2022
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/20775

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