PUTTING PRESUPPOSITIONS ON THE TABLE: WHY THE FOUNDATIONS MATTER

Authors: Boehlke, Paul R.¹; Knapp, Laurie M.²; Kolander, Rachel L.³

Source: Zygon, Volume 41, Number 2, June 2006 , pp. 415-426(12)

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Abstract:

Over time scientists have developed an effective investigative process that includes the acceptance of particular basic presuppositions, methods, content, and theories. The deeply held presuppositions are the philosophical foundation of scientific thought and do much to define the field's worldview. These fundamental assumptions can be esoteric for many and can become a source of conflict when they are not commonly shared with other points of view. Such presuppositions affect the observations, the conclusions drawn, and the positions taken. Furthermore, in some cases presuppositions in science have undergone important shifts in meaning, causing an increasing dissonance. We argue that disputes in religion and science often are due to these very basic differences in philosophy that are held by members in the different communities. To better understand the nature of science and its differences with religious views, presuppositions rather than conclusions should be articulated and examined for validity and scope of application.

Keywords: assumptions; history of science; materialism; naturalism; nature of science; presuppositions; scientific worldview

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9744.2005.00746.x

Affiliations: 1: Professor of Biology and Gary J. Greenfield Endowed Chair of Christian Leadership Studies at Wisconsin Lutheran College, 8800 W. Bluemound Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53226;, Email: paul.boehlke@wlc.edu 2: S4 W31174 Hidden Hollow, Delafield, WI 53018, is a pre-med biology major 3: P.O. Box 190, Montello, WI 53949, is a double major in English and political science at the college.

Publication date: 2006-06-01