Critical Rationalism

Question 1

Proponents of Critical Rationalism

Answer 1

Socrates

Karl Popper

Question 2

What is Critical Rationalism based on?

Answer 2

Socrates (Philosopher/Teacher - Greek) - 1st challenge ideas & beliefs by questioning.
Critical Rationalism as philosophy - 20th Century

Question 3

Critical Rationalism History

Answer 3

• Karl Popper most important supporter of the philosophy
• KP - statements can be found to be definitely false but not definitely true - principal of falsification.
• Questioning & falsification make philosophy open-minded, anti-dogmatic and anti-authoritarian.

Question 4

Describe Critical Rationalism including Aim.

Answer 4

Aim - To not believe in ideas that are false - learn more about world & improve knowledge.

Similar to Empiricism as both want to get to truth as honestly as possible but Empiricism searches for objective truth & Critical Rationalism avoids falsity.

1. Scientists must be objective like empiricists.
2. Don’t ignore values like empiricists because they think values & meaning are important. - Open Society & Democracy.

3.Focuses on clear thinking & questioning.
Questioning really important - Many people don’t question things.

4. Have views criticised & challenged by other scientists - open mindedness.
5. Learn from mistakes & false theories & avoid falsity.

Question 5

What would happen if we ignored Critical Rationalism?

Answer 5

If we ignore Critical Rationalism we will become gullible who can be easily manipulated & do real harm to ourselves & others if fail to question the authorities.

Question 6

Teaching & Learning Critical Rationalism (4)

Answer 6

Debate
Explanation
Rational Problem Solving
Questioning

Question 7

Advantages of Critical Rationalism

Answer 7

• Question what people in authority tell us
• Be more open to what other people think
• Examine our own opinions carefully
• Be more tolerant & understanding
• Solve problems

Question 8

Disadvantages of Critical Rationalism

Answer 8

• Make quick decisions
• Find meaning of life
• Deal with people who are dishonest
• Solve problem of suffering
• Lead to feelings of insecurity

Question 9

Main Ideas of Critical Rationalism

Answer 9

Open Society
Debate
Questioning
Criticism
Explanation
Falsifiability
Non-dogmatic 
Anti-authoritarian
Freedom of Expression
Democracy