The Theory of Anything Episode 120: Popper on Trial
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Nov 11, 2025 Bruce puts Karl Popper on trial against Michael Strevens’ intriguing claims from The Knowledge Machine. They dive into the iron law of explanation, contrasting empirical evidence with philosophy and politics. The discussion highlights Popper's communication issues and the problem of induction. Does Strevens genuinely improve on Popper or just misread him? The conversation probes scientists' beliefs and the idea of rational action in scientific discourse, ultimately concluding that while Strevens clarifies some aspects, he also misrepresents key elements of Popper's philosophy.
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The Iron Rule Of Explanation
- Strevens' 'iron rule of explanation' says science enforces empirical argument publicly while allowing private non-empirical thought.
- He credits that rule with producing rapid scientific progress by narrowing acceptable public explanation to empirical evidence.
Convergence And The Tychonic Drift
- Strevens describes 'Baconian convergence' where observations eliminate competing theories and drive consensus over time.
- He also warns of the 'Tychonic principle' where focus shrinks to ever-smaller empirical details.
Read Popper With Historical Caution
- When reading Popper, expect contradictions between early and late writings and seek later clarifications.
- Treat Popper's early bold claims cautiously and consult later texts for nuanced positions.
