What is science?
An attempt to understand and predict systems (natural and human) using deep, discipline-specific knowledge and methods.
What is science theory (videnskabsteori)?
The study of how knowledge is produced, justified, and shared — combining history, sociology, and philosophy of science.
What are the three main parts of science theory?
- History of science
- Sociology of science
- Philosophy of science
What is an argument (in argumentation theory)?
A structure consisting of premises that support a conclusion the arguer wants the audience to accept.
What is a premise?
A statement that provides reasons or evidence in support of a conclusion.
What is a conclusion?
The claim the arguer is trying to convince the reader/listener to accept.
What are non-arguments?
Descriptions, explanations, summaries, or commands that support understanding, but are not part of the core argument.
What is “common ground”?
Shared assumptions or starting points that both sender and receiver accept, allowing arguments to work.
- According to Bonevac, what do good arguments aim to do?
They aim to persuade by changing beliefs and successfully shifting common ground
What is reliability?
The degree to which a method produces consistent results under the same conditions (reproducibility).
What is Viabiity?
The extent to which a conclusion or measurement accurately reflects reality.
What are the five criteria for good arguments?
- Evidence
- Relevance
- Grounding
- Truth
- Reliability
What is “justified true belief” (JTB)?
The classical definition of knowledge:
A belief that is true, believed, and justified.
Why is justification necessary for knowledge?
To avoid lucky guesses — beliefs must be formed in an epistemically appropriate way.
What is the Gettier problem?
Cases where someone has a true, justified belief that still does not count as knowledge due to flawed reasoning.
What are the three knowledge Regimes?
- Formal (math, logic)
- Empirical (natural sciences)
- Normative/Interpretive (ethics, humanities)
