Mahdi Khalili - Ramsey Meets Ptolemy: Perspectivism about Theory Change

Mahdi Khalili (University of Bern, University of Pittsburgh)

The Center for Philosophy of Science at the University of Pittsburgh invites you to join us for our Lunch Time Talk. Attend in person at 1117 Cathedral of Learning or visit our live stream on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrRp47ZMXD7NXO3a9Gyh2sg.

LTT:  Mahdi Khalili

Friday, March 28 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm EST

Title: Ramsey Meets Ptolemy: A Realist Yet Perspectivist Account of Theory Change

Abstract: According to the Ramsey-sentence approach to scientific theories, a scientific theory or model can be formulated as an existential sentence called a Ramsey-sentence. In this talk, I apply this approach to theory change in the history of science, arguing that the truthful content of past theories can be restated from the perspective of later ones, thereby accounting for their empirical successes.

I begin by reviewing the use of Ramsey-sentences in the works of Rudolf Carnap, structural realists and David Papineau before introducing my own application of the approach. I then use it to explain the success of the Ptolemaic model in predicting the positions of the outer planets. Finally, I draw broader lessons about theory change, offering a realist yet perspectivist interpretation.

Can’t make it in-person? This talk will be available online through the following:

Zoom – https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97141615142

YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrRp47ZMXD7NXO3a9Gyh2sg.