Idealization and factualization in science

Erkenntnis 11 (1):323 - 339 (1977)
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Abstract

This paper considers the method of idealization and factualization as the main method of all advanced empirical science. The procedure is as follows. Some idealizing conditions are assumed: the vanishing of factors $(p_{i}=0)$ which never vanish in the real world. An idealization law is formulated -- a law which is exactly (non-vacuously) fulfilled only in an ideal model, not in any real system. Then the idealizing assumptions are abrogated one by one-it is a process of gradual factualization, of the transition to the factual laws which are fulfilled in real systems. These laws may be directly applied and tested by experience

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Citations of this work

On conceptual correlation.Martti Kuokkanen - 1986 - Erkenntnis 25 (3):371 - 401.
Pragmatic idealization and structuralist reconstructions of theories.Michaela Haase - 1996 - Journal for General Philosophy of Science / Zeitschrift für Allgemeine Wissenschaftstheorie 27 (2):215-234.
Idealisierte erklärungen.Manfred Tietzel - 1986 - Journal for General Philosophy of Science / Zeitschrift für Allgemeine Wissenschaftstheorie 17 (2):315-321.
Idealisierte Erklärungen.Manfred Tietzel - 1986 - Zeitschrift Für Allgemeine Wissenschaftstheorie 17 (2):315-321.

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References found in this work

Philosophic foundations of quantum mechanics.Hans Reichenbach - 1944 - Mineola, N.Y.: Dover Publications.
Gesammelte Aufsätze zur Wissenschaftslehre.Max Weber - 1924 - Revue Philosophique de la France Et de l'Etranger 98:151-152.

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