What schools should teach

pdd@gcc.cc.md.us
8 May 1996 18:54:14 EDT

>3. Finally, arguments about the presumed philosophical bias of scientists
>are themselves philosophical. They should not be part of the science
>curriculum. (Though they could be part of a "philosophical" unit with
>several viewpoints included.)

Why not teach this as part of how the modern scientific method can
still, no matter under how good the intentions, produce biased results
or explanations? For example, if a scientist proceeds from a false
assumption based on a philosophical bias he could conceivably exclude
contradictory data, results, or explanations.

As an alternative, why not introduce the students to the medieval
synthesis/approach of science (which leaned heavily on the Roman
Church's claim to be the arbiter of revelation and interpretation), and
the modern synthesis/approach (which generally precludes anything of a
religious or supernatural nature), how the two differ, and the
shortcomings of each? In essence, what and why and not give weight or
preference either way, as in a comparative religions class.

Paul Durham