Probability and Evidence (Cambridge Philosophy Classics)
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 8/26/2016
EAN 9781316507018, ISBN10: 1316507017
Paperback, 146 pages, 23.1 x 15.3 x 1.1 cm
Language: English
In this influential study of central issues in the philosophy of science, Paul Horwich elaborates on an important conception of probability, diagnosing the failure of previous attempts to resolve these issues as stemming from a too-rigid conception of belief. Adopting a Bayesian strategy, he argues for a probabilistic approach, yielding a more complete understanding of the characteristics of scientific reasoning and methodology. Presented in a fresh twenty-first-century series livery, and including a specially commissioned preface written by Colin Howson, illuminating its enduring importance and relevance to philosophical enquiry, this engaging work has been revived for a new generation of readers.
Preface to this edition Colin Howson
Part I. Methodology
1. Introduction
2. Aspects of the scientific method
3. A taste of Bayesianism
Part II. Probability
4. The primitive theory
5. Subjectivism
6. The rationalist interpretation
7. The logical interpretation
8. The evidential state
9. The empirical interpretation
Part III. Confirmation
10. Explications
11. The paradox
12. A Bayesian pseudo-solution to the problem of induction
13. Projection
Part IV. Induction
Section 1. The Nature of Inductive Inference
Section 2. Conditions of Rationality
14. Demonstrable reliability
15. The demonstrable reliability of c+
16. Immodesty
17. Audacity
Section 3. The Justification of Induction
18. The impossibility of a noncircular rationale
19. Inductive demonstration of reliability
20. Semantic justification
Part V. Prediction
21. Surprise
22. Severe tests
23. Ad hoc hypothesis
24. Prediction versus accommodation
Part VI. Evidence
25. The evidential value of varied data
26. The value of further data
Part VII. Realism
27. Popper
28. Realism versus instrumentalism
29. Putnam
30. Glymour
31. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index.