(December 14, 2015 at 9:52 am)SteveII Wrote: It has come up when discussing philosophical arguments that arguments don't mean anything if we are trying to draw conclusions from science (or the absense of scientific knowledge). I think I am correct in pointing out that that is a result of scientism. When I mention it, I often get a confused reaction, deflection, or derision. For those that enjoy an intelligent debate, it might be productive to discuss.
Scientism, also known as metaphysical or philosophical naturalism, is a worldview that believes only science and the scientific method can judge the truth of something. Click here for more info.
So, which is it? Is philosophy dead as Stephen Hawking claims?
Or is scientism too restrictive a theory of knowledge and we discover truth through other means? Philosophical arguments can inform us.
If you're trying to describe reality, it's best to look at reality. That's what science is good for.
Philosophy speaks to the abstract. Science speaks to the concrete. Problems arise when scientists prescribe the ought from the is; and when philosophers attempt to address reality, without comparing their reasoning to it.
