"the metaphysics of science"

Abstract

PROF. KAPP'S remarks have brought out one important respect in which we are at cross-purposes - and also in agreement. This concerns the notion of 'logical possibility'. Prof. Kapp contends that I have misunderstood his views on this matter; this may well be so, for it is now clear that he attaches to the phrase 'logical possibility' a somewhat unusual meaning, quite different from that which I have assigned to it. He asserts that " 'Logically possible' means, in scientific methodology, logically consistent with the complete body of scientific knowledge". Now Prof. Kapp, like anyone else, is entitled to attach any meaning he likes to any word or combination of words, and no one can gainsay him - except to point out that certain forms of words are misleading. I would like to persuade Prof. Kapp that his terminology is liable to lead to confusion. © 1956 Nature Publishing Group.