1. Methodology Flashcards
Method
An empirical practice within science, such as observational studies, field experiments or model studies
Methodology
The systematic assessment and justification of method choice
Typical goals of science
Prediction, Explanation and Design
Conventional view of methodology
Choices between different methods are justified by what is seen as “common practice” in the field
The best-results view of methodology
Choices between different methods should be determined based on what produces desired results
The epistemic tool view of methodology
Choices between different methods are determined on what one has the most reason to believe will satisfy one’s epistemic goals
(to fulfill one’s desire to know or understand something)
Justification
Reasons for believing a certain proposition to be true
Proposition
The information expressed in a statement or a claim.
Eg. “Snow is white” and “Snö är vit” contains the same Proposition but are two different Statements (In different languages)
Instrumental reasoning
Providing justification to fulfil a clearly stated goal
Prediction
Knowing that an event will occur at a future time
Explanation
Knowing what causes produced an event
Design
Being able to design an artefact that satisfies certain functions
The classical definition of knowledge
True, justified belief.
Lexical definition
A definition that intends to capture a common usage of a term
Stipulative definition
A definition made for a specific purpose, in a specific context
