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Question Pool 2 Summary LM

Nov 04, 20252 min read

Francis Bacon and Scientific Methodology

  • Authority of Ancient Authors

    • Useful when based on sound arguments or when exploring a topic’s background.

  • Obstacles to Reasoning

    • Named “The Idols” as per Bacon, hindering rational thought.

  • Idols and Human Interaction

    • Different kinds:
      • Idols of the Tribe: Biases inherent to human nature.
      • Idols of the Cave: Personal biases affecting perception.
      • Idols of the Marketplace: Obstacles related to language and communication.
      • Idols of the Theater: Dogmas from philosophy, literature, and education.

  • Induction and Deduction

    • Induction: Process of reasoning from specific instances to general principles.
    • Modus Ponens: If p, then q; p is true, thus q must also be true.
    • Modus Tollens: If p then q; ¬q is true, therefore ¬p must also be true.

  • Development of Scientific Knowledge

    • According to T.S. Kuhn: Occurs in breaks or paradigm shifts, not linear accumulation.

  • Bacon’s Methodology

    • Initial Steps: Requires observation and systematic gathering of data (tables of instances) before reasoning.
    • First Task of Induction: To collect initial data (the first harvest) and identify patterns.
    • Crucial Instances (Instantiae Crucis): Key observations that determine the validity of scientific inquiry.

  • The New Organon

    • Bacon’s project aimed at the renewal of knowledge, summarized using aphorisms.

  • Understanding Induction

    • Correct Understanding: There is a right and wrong way to understand induction, which is crucial for valid scientific conclusions.

  • Challenges of Perception

    • Bacon argues that human senses can deceive, requiring conditions to reveal underlying truths.

  • Historical Impact

    • Bacon’s work has roots in the contributions from Greeks, Romans, and Arabs to scientific development.

  • Purpose of Human Science

    • Aim: To discover the forms of natures, essential definitions, and understand natural phenomena through experiments.

  • Opposition to Natural Philosophy

    • Identified as the teachings of Aristotle, which Bacon viewed as hindrances to scientific inquiry.

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