In science, evidence plays a crucial role in validating or disproving hypotheses and theories. There are two main aspects of evidence: empirical and theoretical/logical.
A detective meticulously pieces together the puzzle, drawing on theoretical/logical inference to understand how a suspect might have committed the crime. They analyze the method, time, and weapon used, creating a coherent narrative that explains the suspect's actions. In the world of medicine, this approach is akin to in vitro studies that can explain how certain medicines work, but may not provide definitive proof of their efficacy.
Conversely, even when the detective is unable to fully explain the motive or method behind the crime, they may stumble upon a crucial piece of empirical evidence, such as a smoking gun tucked away in the suspect's pocket. This tangible clue directly links the suspect to the crime, much like how empirical evidence in science connects observations, experiments, and measurements to hypotheses and theories, providing the necessary foundation for scientific understanding. In the world of medicine, this approach mirrors clinical studies that demonstrate the efficacy of certain alternative therapies, even when their underlying mechanisms remain unexplained.
Empirical evidence:
It is based on empiricism. This type of evidence is based on inductive reasoning, which involves drawing general conclusions from specific observations. Empirical evidence is derived from direct observation, experimentation, or measurement. Scientists gather data through experiments and use it to support or refute their hypotheses. Empirical evidence is essential in establishing the validity of scientific claims, as it provides a direct link between the natural world and our understanding of it.
Example: Hand-washing
Ignaz Semmelweis, a 19th-century Hungarian physician, implemented a handwashing policy in Vienna General Hospital's maternity wards, drastically reducing the mortality rate from childbed fever. Despite his significant contribution, his groundbreaking theory was largely rejected during his lifetime, and it was only recognized and accepted after his tragic demise.
https://acupunctureherbalmedicine.blogspot.com/2023/06/science-killed-drsemmelweis.html
Logical / Theoretical evidence (actually just inference):
They are based on rationalism.
These types of evidence, on the other hand, are based on deductive reasoning, which starts with a general principle or theory and derives specific predictions from it. Logical evidence relies on logical reasoning and mathematical models to support or refute a hypothesis. This type of evidence is crucial in advancing our understanding of the underlying principles and mechanisms of the natural world. Theoretical evidence analyzes empirical studies and forms connections between them. This type of evidence advances a theoretical position that doesn't necessarily have proof behind it but can use effective reasoning. Theoretical evidence often serves as a guide for designing experiments and interpreting empirical data. Some might argue if it is an evidence, but some fact only can be proven by calculation, not observation like this example.
Example: Einstein's theory of general relativity
In 1915, Albert Einstein proposed the theory of general relativity, which provided a new understanding of gravity. General relativity is based on the idea that gravity is not a force acting between objects but rather a curvature of spacetime caused by the presence of mass. This theory made several predictions, such as the bending of light around massive objects and the existence of black holes, which were later confirmed through empirical evidence.
Both empirical and theoretical/logical evidence are essential in the scientific process, as they complement each other and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the natural world. Empirical evidence provides the necessary data to test theories, while theoretical evidence helps in organizing and making sense of the data obtained through empirical methods. But, in clinical medicine, only empirical evidence is considered evidence.
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| Galen was a physician, writer and philosopher who became the most famous doctor in the Roman Empire and whose theories dominated European medicine for 1,500 years. |
Solely the balance between evidence and lyricism can allow us to achieve simultaneously emotion and lucidity.
- Camus, Le Mythe De Sisphe