Karl Popper, Science, & Pseudoscience: Crash Course Philosophy

The video explores the scientific landscape of the early 1900s, focusing on the contributions of Einstein and Freud. It introduces Karl Popper, who distinguished between science and pseudoscience by emphasizing falsifiability. Popper's insights into scientific methods highlight the importance of testing theories to disprove them, rather than seeking confirmation. His philosophy underscores the need for openness to new evidence and the willingness to revise beliefs, shaping modern scientific and philosophical thought.

What was Karl Popper's main contribution to the philosophy of science?

• He discovered the law of gravity.

• He developed the theory of relativity.

• He introduced the concept of falsifiability.

• He founded psychoanalysis.

How did Popper differentiate between Freud's and Einstein's approaches?

• Freud's theories were based on risky predictions.

• Einstein's theories were based on past data.

• Einstein's theories could not be disproven.

• Freud's theories could accommodate any data.

According to Popper, what is a key characteristic of a scientific theory?

• It should be irrefutable.

• It should confirm existing beliefs.

• It should be falsifiable.

• It should be based on past data.

What example does Popper use to illustrate the concept of falsifiability?

• The law of gravity.

• The theory of evolution.

• The existence of Santa Claus.

• The theory of relativity.

What does Popper believe about certainty in knowledge?

• Certainty is the ultimate goal of science.

• Certainty is easily achievable.

• Certainty leads to closed-mindedness.

• Certainty is essential for scientific progress.

How does Popper's view on knowledge differ from Descartes'?

• Popper believed in absolute certainty.

• Descartes emphasized probability and contingency.

• Popper valued uncertainty and openness to new evidence.

• Descartes rejected the scientific method.

What is the best way to get closer to the truth, according to Popper?

• By seeking absolute certainty.

• By ignoring new evidence.

• By remaining open to the possibility of being wrong.

• By holding onto current beliefs firmly.