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Structural realism beyond physics
1Purdue University, Department of Philosophy, 7132 Beering Hall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States.
Studies in History and Philosophy of Science
|October 4, 2016
Summary
This study examines structural realism using the historical miasma theory of disease. It demonstrates challenges for structural realism outside physics, offering suggestions for broader application.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- History of Medicine
Background:
- Structural realism posits that scientific theories preserve structural knowledge.
- A key challenge involves identifying theories with successful abandoned structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test structural realism using historical medical theories.
- To analyze the limitations of structural realism in non-physics domains.
- To propose avenues for extending structural realism.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of the miasma theory of disease.
- Philosophical examination of structural realism's tenets.
- Historical record evaluation.
Main Results:
- The miasma theory provides an example of successful abandoned structures.
- Current structural realism struggles with theories outside physics.
- The historical case highlights domain-specific limitations.
Conclusions:
- Structural realism requires adaptation to accommodate theories beyond physics.
- Further development is needed for broader applicability.
- The miasma theory case study offers insights for refining structural realism.
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