The focus of this paper is on the observation of the solar corona as a procedure to gain data for scientific purposes and on the theory of the theory-ladenness of scientific observation, which states that an observation is never completely free of theory and, therefore, cannot function as a sole piece of objective evidence. The philosopher Peter Kosso presented one way out of this dilemma: to additionally validate theories by examining their consistence, coherence and independence. In this paper, the potential to also test observational results regarding their consistence, coherence and independence is examined. A conclusion is reached that applying a combination of these methods enables the researchers to gain valid data.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- The History of the Kanzelhöhe Observatory
- The Theory of the Theory-Ladenness of Observation
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the theory of the theory-ladenness of scientific observation, using observations of the solar corona as a case study. It aims to demonstrate how, despite the inherent influence of theory on observation, valid data can still be obtained. This study will explore methods for minimizing the effects of theory-ladenness and illustrate the explanatory power of science in contrast to pseudoscientific beliefs.
- Theory-ladenness of scientific observation
- Validation of scientific theories through consistency, coherence, and independence
- The history and development of the Kanzelhöhe Observatory
- Observations of the solar corona and their role in scientific research
- The significance of observational data in scientific inquiry
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the concept of theory-ladenness of observation and its potential implications for science. It argues for the importance of addressing this issue to maintain confidence in scientific findings.
- The History of the Kanzelhöhe Observatory: This chapter presents the history of the Kanzelhöhe Observatory, focusing on its establishment, development, and role in solar research. It details the observatory's involvement in a scientific military program established by the national-socialist regime in Germany and its later integration into a global network of solar observatories.
- The Theory of the Theory-Ladenness of Observation: This chapter provides a summary of the theory of theory-ladenness of observation and its historical context. It discusses the debate among philosophers of science concerning the influence of theory on observation and the implications for the objectivity of scientific evidence.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The primary keywords and focus topics of this paper include theory-ladenness of observation, scientific observation, solar corona, Kanzelhöhe Observatory, validation of scientific theories, consistency, coherence, and independence.
- Citar trabajo
- Gundi Jungmeier (Autor), 2023, I Spy With My Little Eye. The Solar Corona. The Concept of Theory-Ladenness of Scientific Observations Revisited, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1441993
