The Criterion of Falsifiability Paper – Description
In chapter one of Conjectures and Refutations, Karl Popper argues that the only criterion that demarcates science from pseudo-science is falsifiability. That is, for a theory to be scientific, it must be falsifiable. One consequence of Popper’s view is that scientific statements arenever justified or proven (e.g., pp. 67-68).
In 500-750 words, reconstruct Popper’s argument that a scientific theory must be falsifiable, and explain why this means that scientific statements can never be justified. (Hint: pay attention to Popper’s discussion of the problem of induction.)
Assignment breakdown:
A complete essay will include all of the following:
A short introduction that contextualises the problem and states the goal of the essay (thesis statement). Since you are reconstructing an argument, a thesis statement looks like ‘In this paper, I will argue that Popper’s criterion of falsifiability follows from his argument that ________.’ The introduction should be as concise as possible! No more than a few sentences, please.
A clear and well-structured reconstruction of Popper’s argument for the criterion of falsifiability. Tip: divide each step of his argument into separate paragraphs, and make sure to explain every part of each step. You should assume your reader knows nothing about the philosophy of science.
An explanation of what the argument in (2) has to do with Popper’s claim that scientific statements are never justified or proven. Try to be as precise as possible – for instance, by pointing to specific steps in the argument you reconstructed above.
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