[ExI] Metaphysics versus Science

[Jason Resch]

On Sat, Jan 6, 2024, 1:30 PM BillK via extropy-chat <
extropy-chat at lists.extropy.org> wrote:

> Most of the people who post here on Exi-chat have an engineering or
> computer tech background.
> This leads them towards the attitude that 'If you can't hit it with a
> hammer, then it is not real and not worth bothering about'.
> Two very different vocabularies trying to discuss!  :)
>

I too come from such a technical/engineering background. However there are
cases where metaphysics is necessary to make technical progress. For
example, to conceive of the possibility of quantum computers required
understanding the reality of the wave function (and it's implied many
unseen worlds). Feynman and Deutsch, the inventors of the quantum computer,
are both believers in many worlds.

To answer the question of the fine-tuning of the physical constants of the
universe to support life requires making the metaphysical assumptions of
other unseen barren universes.

So to even explain how it is that you exist at all to be able to hit
something with a hammer, requires some metaphysics.

Jason



BillK
>
> Please, Mr AI -
> Explain the relationship between Metaphysics and Science.
>
> Answer -
> The relationship between metaphysics and science is complex and
> multifaceted. Although they are distinct fields of inquiry, there are
> points of intersection, interaction, and mutual influence between
> them. Here are a few aspects of their relationship:
>
> 1. Foundational Questions: Metaphysics and science both explore
> fundamental questions about the nature of reality, existence,
> causality, consciousness, and other abstract concepts. Metaphysics
> seeks to provide a theoretical framework that underlies and informs
> scientific investigation. It can address questions that science may
> not be equipped to answer, such as the nature of time, the mind-body
> problem, or the ultimate nature of reality.
>
> 2. Conceptual Frameworks: Metaphysics provides conceptual frameworks
> and ontological assumptions that can shape scientific inquiry. It
> helps establish the basic assumptions and categories through which
> scientists interpret and understand the world. For example,
> metaphysical debates about the nature of causality or the relationship
> between mind and matter can have implications for scientific theories
> and methodologies.
>
> 3. Limits of Science: Metaphysics can explore questions that go beyond
> the scope of empirical investigation or scientific experimentation. It
> can address topics that science currently lacks the tools or
> methodologies to address, such as questions about the nature of
> consciousness, free will, or the existence of non-physical entities.
> Metaphysics can complement science by providing a broader perspective
> and contemplating the limits of scientific knowledge.
>
> 4. Mutual Enlightenment: Metaphysics and science can inform and
> enlighten each other. Scientific discoveries and advancements can
> challenge traditional metaphysical assumptions and lead to new
> philosophical inquiries. Conversely, metaphysical theories and
> concepts can inspire scientific investigation by proposing new avenues
> of exploration or raising thought-provoking questions.
>
> 5. Interdisciplinary Areas: In certain interdisciplinary areas, the
> boundaries between metaphysics and science can become blurred. For
> example, the philosophy of science examines the nature of scientific
> inquiry, the scientific method, and the assumptions underlying
> scientific theories. Additionally, topics like the nature of time, the
> interpretation of quantum mechanics, or the study of consciousness
> often involve both metaphysical and scientific considerations.
>
> It's important to note that while metaphysics and science can interact
> and influence each other, they have distinct methodologies, goals, and
> approaches. Metaphysics tends to be more speculative and
> philosophical, while science relies on empirical observation,
> experimentation, and the formulation of testable hypotheses.
> Both fields contribute to our understanding of the world, albeit through
> different lenses.
> ------------------
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