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Showing posts from October, 2024

How Are Theories Formed?

How Are Physical Theories Formed? Here’s a brief overview of the process for physical theories. Theological and philosophical theories are similarly formed, mostly without the data component. The vague word "truth" is used below. Roughly, it means consensus, consistency, and predictability. Important it is to note that in the five steps below, answers are compounded through the vehicle of problems, or asking questions. A.  Observation : It starts with observations focused on a particular topic, such as the moon, fish, or trees. At this and the next stage axioms, the accepted truths, are formed. B.  Data Collection : Once metrics are defined, the observations are converted into empirical data, often represented as numerical values. C.  Hypothesis Formation : Hypotheses are then developed—educated guesses about how things work or behave. D.  Theory Development : When enough hypotheses are confirmed through experimentation and analysis, the framework of a theory begins

How can I Prove or Disprove a Statement?

  Problem-Solving: Disproving  or Proving a Statement There are several strategies to demonstrate the falsity of a statement: Contradiction: If a statement directly conflicts with a well-established fact or theory, it can be considered false. However, this is not an infallible test, as groundbreaking theories often challenge existing paradigms. Expert Opinion: While relying on experts can be helpful, it's not definitive. Even experts can be mistaken. Personal Belief: Personal beliefs, especially without a strong logical foundation, are unreliable for determining truth. Logical Falsification: In fields like mathematics and science, proving the conclusion of a statement false through accepted logical methods can be a strong indicator of its overall falsity. Lack of Replicability: If a statement or experiment cannot be replicated, it raises doubts about its validity. Author's Reputation: If the author has a history of

Ending War

  Ending War One of the greatest deterrents to long-term warfare is when the combatants run out of guys (to die). The American Civil War, at least for the South, is an example. WWI, with 35 million dead, is also. Now, with Putin recruiting criminal defendants for his army, possibly Ukraine/Russia will be another. https://www.oann.com/newsroom/putin-will-allow-criminal-defendants-to-join-military-to-escape-trial/

Can a good argument be made with a bad premise?

Can a good argument be made with a bad premise? Yes. This is done all the time. Not so much in science because all the practitioners know the premises and are not easily deceived. It is a part of their training. You will find the most excellent arguments made upon bad premises* in politics, political speech, and social communication. Sometimes, bad premises are the basis of demagoguery, to incite, to pass legislation, to go to war. Sometimes, we all make great arguments to others, though with an error in the premises. Now, let’s look for a moment at the many types of bad premises. 1.      Wishful thinking, or you just hope it is so, or you think it should be so. These are deadly to the listener and the speaker. Both parties are deceived. 2.      Expressly for deception. Lawyers make their livings this way with their interpretations of the statues or perhaps what a witness has said. 3.      Vagueness is a leading cause for bad premises, as it can lead the reader or listener to