I have read that Albert Einstein distinguished between two criteria for
confirming the correctness of a theory...
The first, the "external confirmation", which speaks to us through
experimental checks of a theory.
The second, the "inner perfection" judges its logical simplicity or
"naturalness".
It seems to me that one's presuppositions regarding the work of a
supernatural being affects to what extent these criteria are emphasized.
Einstein was reluctant to further define his definitions with respect to
"inner perfection". For many people of faith it would appear that
emphasis on the inner perfection of a theory includes whether or not it
corresponds to or conflicts with deeply held religious beliefs, or
"naturalness".
Atheists may emphasize the "external confirmation" criteria so as to
avoid any non-empirical perspective. Any thoughts on this Derek?
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"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17"
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Paul Durham pdd@gcc.cc.md.us
Oakland, Maryland