On the predictive power of hypotheses Cover Image

O mocy predykcyjnej hipotez
On the predictive power of hypotheses

Author(s): Anna Jedynak
Subject(s): Philosophy
Published by: Uniwersytet Warszawski - Wydział Filozofii i Socjologii, Instytut Filozofii
Keywords: predictiveness; testing of hypotheses; predictive power of hypothesis; science progress

Summary/Abstract: Predictiveness (or testability) can be ascribed to empirical hypotheses in different degrees. Seven reasons why predictiveness is gradable are outlined. They are reflected in seven ways in which hypotheses can be compared according to the degree of their predictiveness. Hence additional specifications are required to accept predictiveness as a criterion of whether given hypotheses are scientific. Generally speaking a new hypothesis has little, if any, predictive power. Its predictive power will increase as science progresses. Specific problems arise when the predictive power is expected from social sciences.

  • Issue Year: 15/2007
  • Issue No: 3 (59)
  • Page Range: 67-76
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: Polish