Date: Wed, 5 Jul 2000 22:37:34 -0600 (MDT)
From: Hans Ehrbar <ehrbar-AT-econ.utah.edu>
Subject: BHA: Re: Explanatory Power




Tobin,


I was trying to argue against the notion that ultimately all
science is based on empirical evidence, and to find examples
of scientific insights which do not rely on empirical
evidence about their subject.

Tobin, you seem to say (and please correct me if I
misrepresent you): as soon as I start investigating
something scientifically I am already dependent on empirical
evidence because I can only know it's there because it has
empirical effects.

My answer: science always builds on previous science or
proto-science.  In order to be able to study capitalism I
must know that it is there.  You claim that this prior
knowledge must be based on empirical evidence.  In my eyes,
the claim that all such prior knowledge is based on
empirical evidence is little different from the claim that
all scientific knowledge is based on empirical evidence.
I.e., I do find your conclusion objectionable.

Regards,

Hans.


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