Philosophy of Natural Science

摘要: In section 3.3 of [i]Philosophy Natural Science[/i], Hempel argues that crucial tests are not sufficient enough to prove a given hypothesis or disprove them. states what some may believe why test can hypothesis. If there two competing which involve the same subject and no available evidence favors one other, then exists test, will produce conflicting outcomes for different hypotheses. This is so-called would presumably refute while supporting other. presents his side this argument using an example past experiments involving nature light. He describes how Foucault performed experiment velocity light through air water. was meant show whether consists waves extremely small particles as presented by Newton. Foucault’s resulting outcome used Newton’s view traveling at high velocity. believed strong completely support either The relied on assumption travel faster in than However conception streams too indefinite assume it slower without additional assumptions about motion their surrounding medium. So even though results seem wave hypothesis, doesn’t necessarily particle theory. fact Einstein later proposed theory, eliminated classical from Lenard 1903. But again previous hypotheses definitely refuted, case being M.-M. V.