Scientific Progress

[Mirimir]

On 10/27/2016 02:14 PM, Peter Fairbrother wrote:
> https://xkcd.com/1520/

Yes, biology did become more popular after the 50s, in reaction to
nuclear weapons. Feynman did have a good point, but he was rather a
sarcastic asshole.

To unpack a bit, he was distinguishing between observation and
experimentation. Experimentation is far more effective than plain
observation. Mostly because you can focus better on variables of
interest. Also because you can ask clearer questions.

He was also arguing that all experimental sciences are basically just
elaborations on physics. And that's bullshit. Because there's emergent
stuff, as you move up levels of structure, process and information.
Sure, you can call it all physics, but you'd still need categories for
coherent discussion.

Then we have cosmology, which associates with physics, but is purely
observational. And there are some aspects of particle physics that seem
to be untestable. Let's hope that someone doesn't figure out how to
create false vacuum ;)