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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What allows for considerations of whether a theory is falsifiable?

2. What must a philosopher do to accept Poppers proposed definition of science?

3. In order to be true statements of science, what characteristic must these statements have?

4. What is one approach to knowledge considered by Popper?

5. What term does Popper use of empirical science?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does metaphysics factor into the scientific process?

2. What must be assumed to justify a universal statement?

3. How is a naturalistic view constraining to scientific thought?

4. What does Popper say about the blind acceptance of auxiliary hypothesis?

5. What are three characteristics of theories?

6. Popper states that scientific statements cannot be conclusively disproved. If this is the case what can be determined with these statements?

7. Why does Popper discredit the conventionalist view of science?

8. What is the distinction between universal statements and singular statements?

9. What does Popper classify as being inductive statements?

10. How does Popper define a scientist?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Popper suggests that simplicity is used in many senses. Discuss these senses and provide support from the reading. What sense of simplicity does Popper feel is appropriate in science? Do you agree with Popper? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

In an essay, discuss why theories that suggest causality can only be deductive. Provide reasoning and examples for your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Popper discusses frequency within a finite class. Discuss how this is determined and used in empirical science. Provide examples and support from the reading.

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