Empirical adequacy: A partial structures approach

Abstract Based on da Costa's and French's notions of partial structures and pragmatic truth, this paper examines two possible characterizations of the concept of empirical adequacy, one depending on the notion of partial isomorphism, the other on the hierarchy of partial models of phenomena, and both compatible with an empiricist view. These formulations can then be employed to illuminate certain aspects of scientific practice. An empirical theory must single out a specific part of the world, establish reference to that part, and say—by way of contingent, substantial claim about the world—that its models fit that . Now, how exactly can this be done? Bas C. van Fraassen (1993, p. 9)

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