The Many Inadequate Justification of Methodological Naturalism Cover Image

The Many Inadequate Justification of Methodological Naturalism
The Many Inadequate Justification of Methodological Naturalism

Author(s): Robert Larmer
Subject(s): Logic
Published by: Filozofický ústav SAV
Keywords: Ad hominem fallacy; nomological science; historical science; supernatural agency; inductive generalization; Robert Pennock;

Summary/Abstract: Contrary to proponents’ claims, methodological naturalism is not metaphysically neutral. Consequently, its acceptance as a practice requires justification. Unfortunately for its advocates, attempts to justify it are failures. It cannot be defended as a definition, or a self-imposed limitation, of science, nor, more modestly, as an inductively justified commitment to natural causes. As a practice, it functions not to further scientific investigation, but rather to impose an explanatory straitjacket.

  • Issue Year: 26/2019
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 5-24
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: English