Metaphor, Recursive Systems, and Paradox in Science and Developmental Theory

Abstract

In my chapter, “The structure of developmental theory,” I argued that the way we decide the value of any theory depends to a significant degree on abstract philosophical assumptions that we bring to the evaluation. Specifically, I claimed that the assumptions of ontological and epistemological realism set one context for theory evaluation; the assumptions of epistemological rationalism or interpretationism set a different context. My general point was simply that the rules define the game, and decisions about whether a game is being played well or poorly necessarily require understanding of the rules. A North American who watches Europeans play “football” can be excused for thinking that Europeans play poorly — indeed insanely — if he is not aware that the rules of North American and European football differ significantly. A Realist who watches a Rationalist play “science” must have similar unkind thoughts.