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(2011) Synthese 180 (2).
Reconsidering the miracle argument on the supposition of transient underdetermination
Paul Hoyningen-Huene
pp. 173-187
In this paper, I will show that the Miracle Argument is unsound if one assumes a certain form of transient underdetermination. For this aim, I will first discuss and formalize several variants of underdetermination, especially that of transient underdetermination, by means of measure theory. I will then formalize a popular and persuasive form of the Miracle Argument that is based on “use novelty”. I will then proceed to the proof that the miracle argument is unsound by means of a mathematical example. Finally, I will expose two hidden presuppositions of the Miracle Argument that make it so immensely though deceptively persuasive.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1007/s11229-009-9600-2
Full citation:
Hoyningen-Huene, P. (2011). Reconsidering the miracle argument on the supposition of transient underdetermination. Synthese 180 (2), pp. 173-187.
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