S/P/82. Can scientific theories be true? Are there credible alternatives to scientific realism?

This paper examines the case for scientific realism – whether scientific theories can be ‘true’. It first attempts to provide a clearer definition of what is meant by scientific realism, before going on to consider the notable arguments made in favour of such an idea (particularly those of Putnam and Boyd). There is then detailed criticism of the idea, particularly surrounding the fundamental assumptions, and some suggestions of alternatives. Van Fraassen’s ‘approximate truth’ idea is also examined.