Re: Parapsychology

From: Johnson, Richard (RICH92@psy.soton.ac.uk)
Date: Thu Feb 16 1995 - 17:13:30 GMT


In reply to Craig's thoughts on parapsychology, in particular - point
(c): Science.

I would agree that science is not everything. However, I have
reservations about certain of Craig's points:-

1) "If theory A, theory B and theory C can all independently give
outcome X, then we are nowhere near the truth"

It is possible for each of theories A, B and C to be of merit. The
issue isn't one of "truth", it is one of usefulness. I draw upon George
Kelly's ideas of range and focus of convenience for support.

2) "Science can stifle a debate on a certain topic if people stubbornly
stick to their views..."

Science is all about debate. Any Scientist who attempts to stifle a
debate is a very poor scientist indeed. As for stubbornly sticking to
views, there is a balance to be struck between being "stubborn" and
abandoning potentially useful approaches in the face of minimal
contradictory evidence. Both extremes hinder progress.



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