Observability and Observation in Physical Science

Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, Philosophy, Epistemology, Science & Nature, Science, Other Sciences, Philosophy & Social Aspects
Cover of the book Observability and Observation in Physical Science by Peter Kosso, Springer Netherlands
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Peter Kosso ISBN: 9789400924345
Publisher: Springer Netherlands Publication: December 6, 2012
Imprint: Springer Language: English
Author: Peter Kosso
ISBN: 9789400924345
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Publication: December 6, 2012
Imprint: Springer
Language: English

The concept of observability of entities in physical science is typically analyzed in terms of the nature and significance of a dichotomy between observables and unobservables. In this book, however, this categorization is resisted and observability is analyzed in a descriptive way in terms of the information which one can receive through interaction with objects in the world. The account of interaction and the transfer of information is done using applicable scientific theories. In this way the question of observability of scientific entities is put to science itself. Several examples are presented which show how this interaction-information account of observability is done. It is demonstrated that observability has many dimensions which are in general orthogonal. The epistemic significance of these dimensions is explained. This study is intended primarily as a method for understanding problems of observability rather than as a solution to those problems. The important issue of scientific realism and its relation to observability, however, demands attention. Hence, the implication of the interaction-information account for realism is drawn in terms of the epistemic significance of the dimensions of observability. This amounts to specifying what it is about good observations that make them objective evidence for scientific theories.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

The concept of observability of entities in physical science is typically analyzed in terms of the nature and significance of a dichotomy between observables and unobservables. In this book, however, this categorization is resisted and observability is analyzed in a descriptive way in terms of the information which one can receive through interaction with objects in the world. The account of interaction and the transfer of information is done using applicable scientific theories. In this way the question of observability of scientific entities is put to science itself. Several examples are presented which show how this interaction-information account of observability is done. It is demonstrated that observability has many dimensions which are in general orthogonal. The epistemic significance of these dimensions is explained. This study is intended primarily as a method for understanding problems of observability rather than as a solution to those problems. The important issue of scientific realism and its relation to observability, however, demands attention. Hence, the implication of the interaction-information account for realism is drawn in terms of the epistemic significance of the dimensions of observability. This amounts to specifying what it is about good observations that make them objective evidence for scientific theories.

More books from Springer Netherlands

Cover of the book Thromboplastin Calibration and Oral Anticoagulant Control by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Professional Learning: Gaps and Transitions on the Way from Novice to Expert by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book From Cause to Causation by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Forests, Trees and Human Health by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Drugāˆ¼Nutrient Interactions by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book International Handbook of Interpretation in Educational Research by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Emerging Nodes in the Global Economy: Frankfurt and Tel Aviv Compared by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book NMR for Chemists and Biologists by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Clean Soil and Safe Water by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Translational Bioinformatics and Its Application by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Change and Progress in Modern Science by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Symbol and Interpretation by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Genomics and Molecular Genetics of Plant-Nematode Interactions by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Transdisciplinary Knowledge Production in Architecture and Urbanism by Peter Kosso
Cover of the book Prediction and Perception of Natural Hazards by Peter Kosso
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy