Edward A. Milne’s Philosophy of Science: Between Aristotelianism and Popperism

Dariusz Dąbek

doi:10.18290/rf.2019.67.3-1

Dariusz Dąbek The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Faculty of Philosophy https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4883-5133

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18290/rf.2019.67.3-1

Keywords: E.A. Milne, Kinematical Relativity, Philosophy of Science, Aristotle, K.R. Poppe

Abstract

This article seeks to show that E.A. Milne’s philosophy of science has its roots in the philosophy of Aristotle and it could be an inspiration for Popper’s philosophy. The similarities with Aristotle’s concept are as follows: 1) the aim of science is to explain phenomena by discovering general principles; 2) the mind is responsible for discovering them, although experience guides the search; 3) deducing detailed statements from general assumptions is the most important element of research. On the other hand, Milne’s proposal is consistent with Popper’s main ideas: 1) criticism of the principle of induction; 2) preference for the hypothetical-deductive method (assumptions should be bold hypotheses that require empirical testing to be accepted); 3) appreciation of falsification and confidence in the effectiveness of deductive logic.

Author Biography

Dariusz Dąbek, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Faculty of Philosophy

Dr. hab. Dariusz Dąbek — The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Philosophy, Department of the Philosophy of Religion; address for correspondence: Aleje Racławickie 14, 20–950 Lublin

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