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Metrological legitimacy and the human sciences.

Alistair M C Isaac1

  • 1University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

Studies in History and Philosophy of Science
|June 27, 2025
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Quantification is scientifically valid when numerical assignments preserve invariant relationships in experimental procedures. This "metrological legitimacy" criterion ensures meaningful algebraic manipulation of measurement outcomes.

Keywords:
Factor analysisInvarianceMagnitude estimationMeaningfulnessQuantity objectionRepresentational theory of measurement

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Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Science
  • Metrology
  • Measurement Theory

Background:

  • The meaningfulness of numerical representation in science is a foundational question.
  • Existing theories often link quantification to theoretical contexts or mathematical structures.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To define a criterion for scientifically permissible quantification.
  • To establish "metrological legitimacy" based on measurement procedures.

Main Methods:

  • Developing a criterion based on invariance over permissible alterations to measurement procedures.
  • Applying the criterion to case studies in psychoacoustics and psychometrics.

Main Results:

  • Quantitative representation is permissible if numerical assignments uniquely specify invariant relationships within a defined procedure.
  • This approach prioritizes structural features of measurement over theoretical embedding.

Conclusions:

  • Metrological legitimacy provides a robust framework for understanding the epistemic authority of measurement.
  • The criterion offers practical insights into contentious measurement examples like loudness and intelligence.