The Ultimate Argument Against Convergent Realism and Structural Realism: The Impasse Objection

Hoyningen-Huene, Paul (2011): The Ultimate Argument Against Convergent Realism and Structural Realism: The Impasse Objection. XXII. Deutscher Kongress für Philosophie, 11. - 15. September 2011, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München.

Abstract

For the sake of argument, two assumptions are conceded to convergent realism. First, a theory space with a metric can be defined containing the relevant sequence of theories. Second, the convergence of this sequence can be diagnosed on the basis of a finite number of elements. The impasse objection states that the limit theory may be substantially different from the true theory. This objection also hits structural realists who base their realism on the stability of structure in the sequence.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Speech)
• Collections: Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > XXII. German Congress of Philosophy; Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > XXII. German Congress of Philosophy > Epistemology
• Subjects: 100 Philosophy and Psychology > 120 Epistemology
• Language: English