Theories Beyond Testability?

摘要

Theoretical physics is often considered the pinnacle of fundamental science, marked by the hallmark of developing strict mathematical theories that lead to empirically testable results confirmed to high accuracy. This is an extraordinary achievement-exemplified by Newton's theory of gravity, Maxwell's theory of electromagne-tism, Einstein's theories of special and general relativity, and the standard model of particle physics. Many other disciplines strive to mimic the methods of theoretical physics in order to conform to what is considered the ideal scientific paradigm. It may come as a surprise then to other scientists that some theoretical physicists are now either explicitly or implicitly pushing for a change in what is required in order that a theory be regarded as scientific. A shift of the balance between empirical and theoretical elements of theory assessment is taking place, with a proposed weakening of the requirement of experimental confirmation of scientific theories.