Mahdi Khalili - Ramsey Meets Ptolemy: Perspectivism about Theory Change
Mahdi Khalili (University of Bern, University of Pittsburgh)

March 28, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:30pm
The Center for Philosophy of Science, University of Pittsburgh

1117 Cathedral of Learning (11th Floor)
University of Pittsburgh, 4200 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh 15260
United States

This will be an accessible event, including organized related activities

This event is available both online and in-person

Organisers:

University of Pittsburgh

Details

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: Perspectivism about Theory Change

Abstract: A Ramsey-sentence is defined as an existential sentence that is equivalent to a scientific theory. In this talk, I use the Ramsey-sentence approach to argue that past theories can contain truthful content. I begin by reviewing its applications in the work of structural realists and David Papineau before outlining my own use of the approach. I then apply it to explain the success of the Ptolemaic model in predicting the positions of the outer planets. Finally, I draw lessons about theory change in the history of science, offering a perspectivist interpretation.ent phenomena and provide a robust framework for understanding their place in the ontological structure of the universe.

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.

Supporting material

Add supporting material (slides, programs, etc.)

Reminders

Registration

No

Who is attending?

No one has said they will attend yet.

Will you attend this event?


Let us know so we can notify you of any change of plan.