Tag: Philosophy of Science
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Paradoxical and, to the Uninitiated, Absurd
Diverging from classical Euclidean concepts, non-Euclidean geometry, birthed in the 19th century, explores alternative geometric systems. Its theoretical breakthroughs have been instrumental in reshaping fields from advanced physics to cosmology, enriching the comprehension of spatial constructs.
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As-If
Originating from the works of philosopher Hans Vaihinger, the “As-If” approach facilitates the analysis of complex systems using hypothetical scenarios. This methodology, while not always reflecting true conditions, aids in rendering intricate concepts more comprehensible.
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Adding Epicycles
In scientific modeling, adding epicycles refers to augmenting a model’s structure to accommodate unexplained data. This practice, which has its roots in ancient geocentric theories of astronomy, often compromises both the model’s simplicity and its predictive accuracy.
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Causal Inference
Causal inference provides a framework for deducing the relationship between cause and effect using empirical data. It employs a variety of rigorous methods to ensure the validity of its findings, making it indispensable in fields such as policy evaluation, economics, and healthcare.
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Pure vs. Applied Research
Pure research seeks to expand fundamental knowledge, driven by curiosity, while applied research is designed to solve practical problems with immediate applications. Both are crucial for knowledge advancement and interact to inform each other.