chunk1

ABSTRACT. Constructive empiricism is a prominent anti-realist position whose aim is to make sense of science. As is well known, it also crucially depends on the distinction between what is observable and what scientific theories postulate but is unobservable to us. Accordingly, adopting an adequate notion of observability is in order, on pain of failing to achieve the goal of grasping science and its aim. Bas van Fraassen, the originator of constructive empiricism, identifies observation with unaided (at least in principle) human perception. So far, though, he has not put forward any convincing argument to support this (unpopular) stand. He did it on the grounds that it is (allegedly) a matter for empirical investigation and not for philosophical analysis. Nonetheless, he seems to have introduced a criterion for observability that is not the result of any scientific research and is not supported by any scientific theory. Countering his own words, he seems to have instead reflected qua philosopher on how an empiricist should interpret the meaning of the verb “to observe.” And then he has tried to defend his point of view by means of metaphors and analogies. But the very same metaphors and analogies van Fraassen has put forward could be used to back up the opposite position. Worse, not only does his criterion counter common sense, it does not work either. Perhaps the time has come for van Fraassen to put forward or endorse alternative criteria of observability. pp. 55–76

Keywords: constructive empiricism; microscope; observability; observation; unaided perception; van Fraassen

How to cite: Gava, Alessio (2016), “Why van Fraassen Should Amend His Position on Instrument-mediated Detections,” Analysis and Metaphysics 15: 55–76.

Received 16 March 2016 • Received in revised form 24 May 2016
Accepted 24 May 2016 • Available online 10 June 2016

ALESSIO GAVA
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Universidade Estadual do Paraná,
Apucarana, PR, Brazil

Home | About Us | Events | Our Team | Contributors | Peer Reviewers | Editing Services | Books | Contact | Online Access

© 2009 Addleton Academic Publishers. All Rights Reserved.

 
Joomla templates by Joomlashine