Using theoretical constraints and the TASI taxonomy to delineate predictably replicable findings

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Replication crisis in science necessitates a focus on stable, trustworthy findings.
• Existing research often emphasizes failures to replicate rather than reproducible successes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors contributing to stable and replicable research findings.
• To propose a framework for enhancing the predictability of empirical results.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of a hierarchy of four levels of theoretical constraints (a priori, psychophysical, empirical, modelling).
• Integration of the TASI (Theoretical, Auxiliary, Statistical, Inferential) taxonomy of assumptions.
• Development of a framework linking theoretical constraints to empirical predictability.

Main Results:

• Theoretical constraints are crucial for stable and replicable research.
• Researchers' sensitivity to metatheoretical and auxiliary assumptions is equally important.
• The TASI taxonomy highlights reasons why valid hypotheses may not always be supported.

Conclusions:

• A twofold approach involving theoretical constraints and awareness of auxiliary assumptions enhances research reliability.
• The proposed framework helps operationalize conditions for predictable empirical findings.
• This research shifts focus towards building trustworthy scientific knowledge.