Are there boundaries in modern science?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the concept of boundaries in modern science, particularly in relation to metaphysics and the potential limitations that a strict adherence to scientific methods may impose on exploration and understanding. Participants examine the interplay between science and metaphysics, questioning whether certain perspectives may inhibit scientific discovery.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that science has no inherent boundaries, viewing metaphysics as a form of physics that has yet to be fully understood or quantified.
  • Others argue that science cannot engage with metaphysical concepts, as they do not interact with the physical world and are thus unprovable and unfalsifiable.
  • One participant posits that boundaries are essential for balance and that they facilitate exploration and transcendence in various domains, including science.
  • There is a viewpoint that the only true boundary is time, which is constantly shifting, while some argue that certain boundaries, such as the physical realm, cannot be transcended by science.
  • Ethics are discussed as boundaries that can guide scientific exploration, suggesting that ethical considerations can facilitate the crossing of other boundaries.
  • Some participants speculate that what is considered metaphysical today may eventually become part of physics, contingent on future developments in scientific inquiry.
  • Concerns are raised about the meaningfulness of concepts that cannot be observed or felt, questioning their reality if they do not have tangible effects.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the nature of boundaries in science and metaphysics, with no clear consensus reached. Some agree on the potential for science to transcend boundaries, while others maintain that certain boundaries are insurmountable.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various definitions of metaphysics and its relationship to science, highlighting the evolving nature of these concepts. Participants acknowledge that assumptions about the physical realm and the existence of unknowable truths are central to the debate.

  • #31
People, let's get something straight here: I have absolutely nothing against speculation. In fact, I encourage it, and heartily take part it in it myself.

I also have no objection to science's speculative nature (if reality was obvious to us, we'd have no need of science).

However, while learning (=philosophy) may have no boundaries, science (which is just one of many branches of philosophy) does - otherwise, it wouldn't be a branch, but just another name for "philosophy". Science is limited that which is repeatable in experimentation, and science is limited to "how", "what", "which", "where", and "when" questions, it cannot ask "why" questions.

These are not just my opinion, they are what I've gathered from studying the Scientific Method (philosophy of science). I don't see why it should trouble people on the Philosophy Forum that science has boundaries. The real question is: does Philosophy have boundaries?
 

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