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WIDR FM student radio station hosts Spin-a-Thon
Western Michigan University students gathered at 89.1 WIDR FM, WMU’s student-run, noncommercial educational station, to share physical media live on-air during the station's second annual Spin-a-Thon event Sept. 29.
The second annual Grand Strand Chef’s Table event returns to Myrtle Beach
The Horry Georgetown Technical College’s International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach is ready to host the second annual Grand Strand Chef’s Table event on Friday, Oct. 16.
49ers’ Kyle Shanahan Set to Make History Against Broncos
Kyle Shanahan is about to etch his name into San Francisco 49ers history. It’s arriving faster than it might seem.Shanahan Set to Pass Bill Walsh on the 49ers’ All-Time ListHeading into Week 4 against the Denver Broncos, Shanahan will surpass legendary coach Bill Walsh for the most games as San Francisco’s head coach. He’ll reach […] The post 49ers’ Kyle Shanahan Set to Make History Against Broncos appeared first on HEAVY.
Yankees make Aaron Judge announcement before ALDS vs Rays
Will Aaron Judge be on the Yankees ALDS roster?
Commentary: Universal public health insurance is the answer
Employer-sponsored health insurance is rapidly deteriorating. In 2027, premiums are expected to see their largest single-year increase in two decades, jumping 11% and closing in on a nearly five-fold increase
Notre Dame Nabs Six Spots on Early NFL Draft Board
For decades, major football programs such as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish have spent heavily on training centers and experienced coaching staffs. Those resources help high school recruits become stronger and more prepared early in their college careers. Top universities now run football programs that work much like professional teams. Scouts follow talented college players […] The post Notre Dame Nabs Six Spots on Early NFL Draft Board appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
NICK STROBEL: Saturn and its rings on display
Tonight Saturn is at opposition, appearing opposite the sun in our sky. This happens as we pass by Saturn in our faster, inner orbit. This also marks the time when
Stanford's Caroline Birkel Hasn't Allowed a Goal This Season
With Birkel back in net, the Cardinal have looked more like themselves
Stunning comeback as Valkyries erase 16-point deficit to down Wings, advance to semifinals
The Golden State Valkyries, who fell behind by 16 on in the decisive game of their playoff series with the Dallas Wings, rallied to win 77-73. They will face the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals.
Olivia Insani Perske: Rooted and resonant
Olivia Insani Perske was singing before she was speaking — literally.
Smell the Coffee: When customers say 'I can make that'
“I can make that,” the woman said to her friend, pointing at a pet bed I made from an old suitcase to sell in our booth at last year’s Hinton
Seahawks Make Major Lineup Move Involving Jadarian Price vs. Chargers
The Seahawks' offense is going to look a little different on Sunday.
Judge temporarily blocks border wall construction in Texas’ Big Bend region
A federal court in Texas has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from building a border wall in the Big Bend region. This decision is a win for landowners, businesses and
Kennedy Center Honors move to new venue amid building closure
The Kennedy Center Honors gala will move to Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., after the center’s closure amid a legal battle over the addition of Trump's name to the building.
Rising costs, health insurance, abortion: The issues driving Michigan’s Senate election
A look at policy proposals from Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed and Republican nominee Mike Rogers.
Your Weekly Michigan Political Brief
The Detroit Free Press endorsed Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed. He also received endorsements this week from Sierra Club Michigan and the Michigan Laborers’ International Union of North America, or LiUNA. Republican U.S. Senate nominee Mike Rogers was endorsed by the Michigan Corn Growers Association. The Michigan Professional Firefighters Union and National Security Leaders […]
I got better at my job when I stopped people-pleasing
I have a history of people-pleasing. When I realized it was more important to be direct and honest than to be liked, I changed my approach.
Commanders rule out Jayden Daniels, confirm Marcus Mariota will start vs. Colts in London Week 4
Browns 2nd-quarter schedule lookahead
Cleveland Browns are 3-1 through the first quarter of the season, what does the next 4 games on the schedule look like?
BREAKING: Fabian Hurzeler Wins Premier League Manager Of The Month
Brighton's tactical maestro completes a clean sweep for the Albion
What's the 411?
We remember multimedia personality Angela Stibling. She worked for WHUR Radio in Washington D.C., and was a personality on BET. Her velvet voice and warm presence made her standout in
10 Healthy Brain Habits To Keep Your Career Sharp This Fall
As autumn days become shorter, 10 brain health habits keep your thinking sharp and give your brain the same care you give to your heart, lungs and digestive health.
Gulfshore Business 40 Under 40 Class of 2026
There’s a popular adage that age is merely a number, and many people take that mindset enthusiastically to heart. But a number of people in Southwest Florida have worked hard to make their mark in the world before the age of 40.
Falcon Rice Mill's Trahan talks tariffs, diesel prices and family business
Co-owner Robby Trahan never envisioned he would oversee the 84-year-old business
MumFest returns to historic downtown Oct. 10-11
MumFest, New Bern’s award-winning annual festival, returns to historic downtown Oct. 10 and 11 with live music, food, shopping, entertainment and family-friendly activities.
Nottingham honors Dorsey Levens by naming athletic field after him
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) – Dorsey Levens football career began the playing fields at Sherman Park in Syracuse. On Thursday, Nottingham honored Levens by naming its athletic field Herbert Dorsey Levens Field. In 1988, Levens was named the New York State player of the year. He finished his high school career with over 3,100 yards rushing, […]
DCB Bluegrass Band headed to Carter Fold (copy)
HILTONS, Va. — The Carter Family Fold will host the DCB Bluegrass Band this Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Jerome Tang, K-State finalizing $12 million settlement agreement: reports
MANHATTAN (KSNT) — Kansas State University and former men’s basketball head coach Jerome Tang are reportedly finalizing a settlement agreement. K-State will reportedly pay Tang $12 million between now and the end of 2027, per ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The university fired Tang ‘for cause’ on Feb. 15 before the end of the 2025-26 season following […]
UTSA-Rice football: How to watch Roadrunners' American Conference opener
UTSA returns to the site of one of coach Jeff Traylor's most disappointing losses for a matchup against Rice at 6 p.m. Saturday.
“My biggest thing is winning, whether I’m starting or …
“My biggest thing is winning, whether I’m starting or …
Jim Carrey marries girlfriend Min Ah in Los Angeles
Jim Carrey has tied the knot with Min Ah, his girlfriend of several years, The Times confirms. This is the third marriage for the 'Sonic the Hedgehog' actor.
Nations League: Portugal win first game without CR7, Germany click
Four matches continued another round of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League this Thursday (1st).The games were valid for Groups 2 and 4.At home, Germany beat Serbia 2-0, with goals from Bischof and Wirtz....
Ten bucks says you’ll love this community science project
Today marks the first day of Rut Watch 2026 With another season of Deer Spy in the books thanks to community scientists like you, biologists are now on a mission to pinpoint the peak of the white-tailed deer breeding season in Maine. Every observation of deer breeding behavior and sign helps define the timing of the rut, and this project uses the power of community science to collect deer data all fall long. Hunters, hikers, and wildlife watchers - Rut Watch pairs well with any outdoor adventure you have planned this season. It’s a perfect excuse to slow down and connect with nature as you look for clues. So get outside, rack up that deer data and submit rut reports from now through December 1. The online form is science made simple: Location Date and time Breeding behavior observed Submit a Rut Report What to watch for Active Breeding The most obvious breeding behavior to observe is a buck mounting a doe, but that is a rare sight as it only lasts a moment. You are more likely to witness a buck “tending” a doe, following closely, chasing, nuzzling, or pawing at her rump until she is receptive. Sparring After bucks shed their velvet, sparring helps sort out who is who in the dominance hierarchy. Early season matches are often less intense than later season matches between similar sized bucks. Most sparring is complete by the time breeding begins. Rubs Don’t just look for deer, pay attention to the trees. Rubs are marks made by bucks when they rub their antlers on trees, removing bark and leaving their scent calling card in the process. Scrapes Look to the forest floor for this sign of breeding season behavior. Scrapes consist of two parts - a licking branch, and a patch of cleared earth. Bucks break a low branch around head height, then paw at the leaves below to expose the dirt. Covered in scent, a scrape tells does and other bucks, “I’m here!” Learn More More information What’s next for deer community science: Northern Maine Wintering Deer Survey Other active community science projects: Fish Tag Reporting Maine Golden Eagle Study Maine Amphibian & Reptile Atlas Project Maine Deer Management: Maine’s Big Game Management Plan Game Species Conservation & Management Report The Benefits of Hunting: Supporting Wildlife, Conservation, and Community Subscribe Share Leave a comment
Gasser Has Earned Brewers’ NLDS Game 3 Start Over May
Riding a dominant late-season surge, Robert Gasser offers the Milwaukee Brewers the consistency and tactical balance needed to dismantle the San Diego Padres’ lineup.
Rotary club hosts oktoberfest fun for families and friends
The Rotary Club of Bonita Naples is hosting Oktoberfest 2026: Prost with a Purpose on October 10 at Riptide Brewing Company in Bonita Springs, combining authentic German festivities with community fundraising to support local initiatives.
The Cornell Case Raises An Overlooked Health Question
Sexual assault can affect physical and mental health for months or years. Here’s what survivors may face—and what good healthcare should provide.
The best new restaurants in the US, according to Yelp
Yelp ranked the best new restaurants in the country, from jungle-themed hot spots to a Korean fusion spot.
Rapper Rick Ross charged with battery after domestic violence accusation
Authorities say rapper Rick Ross was arrested early Thursday in Miami Beach and charged with battery related to a domestic violence accusation. Online court records show Ross, whose legal name
Guide to New Orleans theater shows in October 2026
From uplifting musicals like "Come From Away" to compelling dramas like "Something Cloudy, Something Clear," the New Orleans and northshore stages are set for a diverse and captivating fall season!
AGC Studios Launches Digital Division Focused On Creator-Led IP
AGC Studios is launching AGC Digital, a dedicated division focused on creator-led content. The studio said the division will partner with digital creators to turn their ideas, content, and audiences i...
Nico Paz: The likely heir to Messi’s no. 10
Nico Paz is emerging as the favourite to inherit the legendary no. 10 shirt from Lionel Messi. The 22-year-old underlined his credentials as a contender for the 'throne', in Argentina's thrashing of B...
Angels Starter Makes Prominent All-Rookie Team
The Los Angeles Angels got some great starting pitching in the second half of the season from Walbert Urena.
Three business groups to bid for building reservoir
The groups consist of firms based in countries including Italy, Spain, South Korea and England.
Good science requires much more than evidence
Empiricists believe that scientific theories are true only if they make correct empirical predictions: if we can't verify these predictions, then there is no reason to expect that they tell us anything about reality. However, Professor of Philosophy at King's College David Kyle Johnson argues that this is mistaken. In response to Bas van Fraassen, who has written on this subject for the IAI, he argues that we have many reasons for believing a theory to be true, such as it being parsimonious and having large scope — qualities which have been used throughout the history of science as criteria for judging theories. In 2024, Princeton philosopher Bas van Fraassen wrote a short article for IAI News entitled “Science Does not Describe Reality: The Limits and Benefits of Explanation.” At the time, I was working on two projects (a science book and a Great Course) that, when completed, would (among other things) defend science’s ability to describe reality. I wanted to write a response to van Fraassen, but the projects demanded too much of my attention. But now that those projects are complete, I am in a position to explain the objections to van Fraassen’s thesis. Summarizing van Fraassen’s argumentIn a nutshell, his argument is this: What scientists do is make predictions based on theories and then invite others to test to see whether those predictions are borne out. “If theory T is right, result R should happen in experimental condition C.” Many think that running an experiment that shows that R happens in condition C is proof that theory T is true (and should be believed). But, van Fraassen argues, that R happened in condition C is only a reason to think that R happens in condition C. That’s the only observable, or empirical, result we can actually see, so that is all that we are really justified in believing. (The underlying theory that made that prediction still may or may not be true.) That is why he calls those who accept his position “empiricists.”Before I explain what is wrong with this position, let me explain what it gets right. What van Fraassen Gets RightFirst, a theory correctly predicting the results of an experiment is not, strictly speaking, “proof” that the theory is correct. The basic line of reasoning is this:If the theory T is true, result R should happen. Result R did happen. Thus, theory T is true.In other words:“If T then R. R. Thus, T.”This is a deductively invalid, fallacious mode of reasoning, called “affirming the consequent.” Those premises do not guarantee that the conclusion follows. “If I am in Pennsylvania, then I am in the USA. I am in the USA. Thus, I am in Pennsylvania.” Clearly that argument doesn’t guarantee its conclusion; neither does the above argument.However, science is not a deductive method of reasoning; it is an inductive one. And inductive arguments merely try to raise the probability of their conclusion, not “prove” them for certain. Thus, the fact that an experimental result doesn’t prove a theory is true is irrelevant; it’s not supposed to. That is not what scientific reasoning is about.___If the hypothesis that something exists clearly provides the best explanation for what we can observe, then the belief that it exists is what is rational.___Second, it’s also true that a single experimental result doesn’t provide enough justification to believe that a theory is true. Scientists do not come to a consensus about whether a theory is true by looking at a single experiment; they look at all the evidence to determine where the preponderance of evidence points. The mere fact that I am in the USA raises the probability that I am in Pennsylvania, but not nearly enough to conclude that I am in Pennsylvania. However, if I am also regularly encountering people wearing Eagles and Phillies hats and seeing advertisements for Founding Father tours, I probably am. In the same way, a theory successfully predicting the outcome of one experiment is not enough to conclude that it is true; but if a theory makes a wide variety of predictions that are all vindicated by multiple experiments, performed by many different groups and people, all actively trying to prove the theory false (which is what good scientific experiments are designed to do)—that is a good reason to conclude that the theory is true. In other words, if you repeatedly try to prove something false but can’t, that is a very good indication that it isn’t. The problem of underdeterminationIn reply, those whom van Fraassen calls “empiricists” often point to the “problem of underdetermination.” For any given theory that makes successful predictions about what happens in experimental conditions, there are countless other possible theories that make exactly the same predictions—and since they do, the experimental evidence in question is just as much reason to accept any of those theories as it is to accept our original one. Thus, the argument goes, we have no way of knowing whether our original theory is true, or one of the other “predictively equivalent” theories is true. SUGGESTED VIEWING How Occam's Razor changed the world With Johnjoe McFadden As an example of underdetermination, philosophers often offer this example. The evidence of fossils seems to provide reason to conclude that the universe is quite old; ancient fossils are what the “ancient universe” hypothesis predicts. But it’s also possible that God created an ancient-looking universe 200 years ago, complete with a “fake” fossil record for us to find, to make it look old. The existence of fossils is what that theory predicts too. So, the argument goes, the fossil record can’t be used as evidence that the universe is ancient; the fossil record supports the “200-year-old ancient-looking universe” theory just as much. The problem of underdetermination points out that, for any theory with supporting evidence, we could invent another completely different theory that predicts exactly the same evidence, and thus undermine that evidence’s ability to support the original theory.But this “argument from underdetermination” betrays a fundamental misunderstanding of what scientific reasoning is and how it works. To explain, let me use another rather strange (but very real and commonly discussed) philosophical thought experiment called “The Grue Problem.” The “Grue” ProblemSuppose I want to know what color emeralds are, so I observe a few, see that they all appear green, and form the theory that “all emeralds are green.” I thus predict that the next 100 emeralds I find will also appear to be green. And let’s say that happens, and so I thus conclude that my theory that all emeralds are green is true. Now, one might rightly point out that I don’t know for sure that all emeralds are green—I have not seen them all. Maybe some I haven’t found yet are blue. Fair enough. After all, we used to think that all swans were white, until we found some black ones. But let’s say that I go on a quest and collect every emerald in the universe—and, for the sake of the argument, let’s say I can do this, and can even know that I have every one of them. So, I collect them all, look at them all, and verify that they all appear green. Can’t I now rightly conclude that all emeralds are green?Inspired by the problem of underdetermination, a friend might argue that I cannot.Sure, they all appear green now—but there could be another kind of color called “grue.” Something is grue if it is green up to a certain point in time, but then spontaneously turns blue. And there could be an infinite number of “shades” of grue. Something that is one shade of grue will turn blue at noon today, but something that is another shade of grue will turn blue at noon tomorrow, etc. So yes, the emeralds appear green now; and since they haven’t turned blue yet, they are not some “past” shade of grue. But they might be some “future” shade of grue (e.g., they may turn blue at noon tomorrow). And since all future shades of grue are consistent with “being green up to this point in time,” the evidence you have is completely consistent with the notion that all emeralds are some future shade of grue, rather than green. Indeed, that they would appear green until now is what the “some future shade of grue” hypothesis predicts. So, we have just as much reason to conclude that all emeralds are some shade of grue as we do to conclude that they are green.You’re probably thinking “It’s not equally possible that the emeralds are grue; they are obviously green.” You are right! But explaining why your instinctive reaction to my friend’s argument is correct will help inform why van Fraassen’s “empiricist” is wrong and science actually does describe reality.The main mistake my friend makes is in thinking that the “empirical evidence” (of all the emeralds appearing green) is (or even should be) all I am using to draw the conclusion that all emeralds are green. It is not. I am also considering known facts about how colors typically work; things don’t usually change color, and when they do, they don’t do so suddenly, without cause, and all at once. So, even though the simple evidence of the emeralds all appearing green up to this point is consistent with them being some future shade of grue—that is even what the grue hypothesis “predicts”—it is still exceedingly unlikely that they are. The hypothesis that they are green is much more likely. Understanding science refutes the problem of underdetermination The misunderstanding about science that the “empiricist” pointing to “the problem of underdetermination” makes is similar to the one that my friend made. Science is not just about considering experimental evidence; in fact, it’s not even just about considering empirical evidence. As Ernan McMullin and many other philosophers of science have pointed out, the inference that makes science is “inference to the best explanation” (sometimes called “abduction” or “retroduction” by McMullin). While, depending on the circumstances, scientists use many different kinds of reasoning, science as a whole is, simply put, the process of considering multiple competing explanations and comparing them to certain criteria—explanatory criteria (the kinds of things explanations must be and do, by definition, to be a good explanation)—to see which explanation is the best.And these criteria do not deal only with empirical results. Yes, successful predictions raise the probability of a hypothesis, but it’s also the case that the more new assumptions a theory makes, the less likely it is to be true; every new assumption presents an opportunity for the theory to be false. (The fewer assumptions a theory makes, the simpler or “more parsimonious” it is said to be.) Likewise, the more existing evidence a theory contradicts, the less likely it is, because in order for a theory to be true, every piece of evidence it contradicts has to be somehow faulty. (The fewer established theories a new theory contradicts, the more “conservative” it is said to be.) And, obviously, the more something explains, the better explanation it is. (This is called having “scope.”) If a theory raises unanswerable questions, it’s not expanding our understanding, and thus is not wide-scoping. Scientists consider all these things when deciding which theory to accept, because the theory that adheres best to these explanatory criteria is most likely to be true.___the mere fact that a theory’s predictive success is why it “sticks around” or “becomes accepted” in the scientific community is not a reason to be skeptical about its truth.___The reason the grue hypothesis is no good is because it invents an entirely new kind of color—not just a new shade, but an entirely different category of color (a different way colors work)—and thus is not parsimonious. It raises unanswerable questions about how and why emeralds would just spontaneously change from green to blue (and thus does not have wide scope). And it contradicts what is already well established about how color works (and thus is unconservative).The theories that the problem of underdetermination points to do the same thing. Yes, the theory that God created an “ancient-looking universe” (complete with an ancient-looking fossil record) two hundred years ago is also consistent with the empirical evidence (of a fossil record) that presently exists; but that theory is monumentally unparsimonious (it requires many extra assumptions about infinite entities) and not wide-scoping (it raises unanswerable questions about why God would do such a thing). So, I can rationally conclude that it is false.Indeed, the history of science includes many examples of theories that were rejected because they lacked parsimony and/or scope, even before their falsity (and the truth of their competing theory) was confirmed by observation. As I point out in my book, geocentrism was rejected by the scientific community because it lacked parsimony, almost 200 years before the observation of parallax confirmed that the Earth moves around the sun. And the continuum theory of matter was completely rejected by 1860, because it couldn’t explain chemical reactions or organize matter into a periodic table, even though the experiments that eventually confirmed atomic theory weren’t even proposed until the 1870s. Solving the best of a bad lot problemIn response, the “empiricists” are likely to object, this time pointing to the “best of a bad lot” problem. “We have no reason to conclude that an explanation that has been shown to be better than others is true because we have no guarantee that the true theory was among those that we were considering.” If you have a “lot” (a collection) of poor explanations, even the best one is not true.The responses to this problem, however, are numerous. Peter Lipton argues that the set of hypotheses that scientists consider are not just randomly selected and thus unlikely to contain a theory that is true; they use existing knowledge to home in on what is most likely to be true. A doctor trying to explain abdominal pain is not going to bother wondering whether demons are causing it; they are going to stick with things like appendicitis and kidney stones, because they are most likely. Further, despite its name, inference to the best explanation is not just the process of comparing hypotheses and accepting the best one; we also want one that is a good explanation in its own right. If it’s not, we are going to keep looking until we find an explanation that is. And while that process does not guarantee that we will come across the exact truth, it’s very likely that the theory that emerges as the best will be at least approximately true, and thus we will be justified in believing it. And lastly, as I point out in my book, although many theories not based in scientific evidence (like geocentrism and continuum theory) have been completely overturned, science almost always progresses by the refinement of scientifically established theories—not their replacement. (Although our sun is not the center of the universe, heliocentrism was our first step in understanding the Earth’s true place in the universe.) So even if a theory we accept today may not be completely right, accepting it is a step on the journey toward the complete truth. The example of atomic theoryNow, it’s worth pointing out that most empiricists are not skeptical of all scientific theories; they are only skeptical of the ones that hypothesize the existence of “unobservables.” It’s not like they think that round Earth, heliocentrism, and germ theory are just useful (but untrue) “instruments” for making predictions about how to most efficiently navigate the seas, predict planetary motion, and treat diseases. They admit that the Earth actually is round, that the planets revolve around the sun, and that germs exist and cause disease. These facts and entities can be observed; the theories that suggest they exist are true. It’s only when theories start hypothesizing the existence of unobservables—like electrons, or quantum fields—that can’t be observed directly, that we should start doubting the theories’ truth. And to be fair to van Fraassen, in this published work, he doesn’t really say that we should doubt the truth of such theories. Only that scientific reasoning does not rationally force us to accept them as true. Skepticism, or agnosticism, he argues, is warranted. SUGGESTED READING Science is based in metaphor By Andrew Reynolds But the history of atomic theory throws a monkey wrench into that argument. Atoms used to be unobservable; again, scientists first accepted the theory that they exist because it had such grandiose explanatory power. But then atoms were seen with electron microscopes. They thus moved into the category of the observable. But this didn’t substantially change anything about what scientists were justified in believing; it certainly didn’t change any “atomic skeptics’” minds. It just confirmed what everyone already knew! If the hypothesis that something exists clearly provides the best explanation for what we can observe, then the belief that it exists is what is rational. The fact that the thing itself is not technically observable does not make doubting its existence rational.What’s more, the atoms were seen with an electron microscope. But electrons are themselves unobservable. How can an electron microscope reveal an atom if electrons are not real? This leads us to what is famously known as Hilary Putnam’s “miracle argument.” It’s (not) a miraclePhilosopher Hilary Putnam’s miracle argument is somewhat famous. Basically, he argued that a scientific theory being able to repeatedly make successful predictions—even about unobservables—without being at least approximately true would require a “miracle.” In other words, it would be such an improbable occurrence that it could not rationally be believed—the better explanation for why scientific theories about unobservables make the right predictions is because the unobservable entities and structures they hypothesize exist.Van Fraassen has addressed this argument. Indeed, in his original article, where he references Alison Gopnik’s point about orgasms not being “necessary for procreation” even though the desire for orgasm “drives the creation of progeny,” he is pointing to his own argument about how organisms are not naturally selected by evolution to get true beliefs; to the extent that belief-forming processes are selected for, the ones that are selected are the ones that are useful for survival—not the ones that produce true beliefs. In the same way, van Fraassen argues, scientific theories are accepted, not because they are true, but because they aren’t falsified; they make successful predictions; that’s what makes them “stick around.” So, the fact that they make successful predictions (and thus became accepted) is not a reason to think they are true.This argument is similar to C. S. Lewis’s “argument from reason,” which he used to argue against evolution: “The truth of evolution undercuts our ability to know that it is true.” Lewis’ argument famously failed; Elizabeth Anscombe, by Lewis’s own admission, demolished Lewis in a debate on the topic, and I have explained elsewhere why modified versions of the argument fail as well. In short, it’s because it fails to recognize that a belief-forming process can make an organism more likely to survive because it reliably produces true beliefs. It is therefore not the case that beliefs generated by naturally selected belief-forming processes are automatically false or unjustified.In the same way, the reason a theory “sticks around” could be because it’s not falsified, because it “makes correct predictions.” But the reason it makes correct predictions is most likely because it is true. (In pointing this out, I am echoing the arguments of Musgrave, Lipton, Psillos, and Kitcher, who refuted van Fraassen’s argument and analogy long before his 2024 article.) It would be a huge coincidence that it could do so without being true. And that is the point of Putnam’s miracle argument. Thus, contrary to van Fraassen’s suggestion, the mere fact that a theory’s predictive success is why it “sticks around” or “becomes accepted” in the scientific community is not a reason to be skeptical about its truth. ConclusionLet me close by saying something about the fact that empiricists don’t doubt the truth of all scientific theories, just the ones that hypothesize unobservables. In today’s society, this theory is dangerous to espouse publicly. The nuance between being skeptical about all of science, and just the highly technical theories about unobservables, is guaranteed to be lost to the average reader. And there is so much unjustified skepticism and doubt about the findings of science and experts that a headline like “Science Does Not Describe Reality” could easily fuel the anti-science movement, worsen climate change denial and cause the next pandemic.This is why I believe it was important to still respond to van Fraassen’s article, a full two years after he wrote it. Not only, as I have argued, does it represent a philosophically inaccurate view of how scientific reasoning works and what scientific reasoning can do, but it is a dangerous view to boot. It should thus be rejected.
Are AI Agents Going Rogue? Here’s What Business Leaders Should Know
Rogue AI agents have probed government sites and deleted company data. Learn why agents overstep their limits and four simple steps leaders can take to stay in control.
Andrew Cuomo Hammers Partisan Politics: 'When CLARITY Failed, Ambiguity Wins'
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday said the CLARITY Act’s collapse came down to pure politics, not any irreconcilable policy dispute. Politics, Not Policy, Killed the Bill Cuomo told Bloomberg Television said the bill had the best name...
Democratic Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed explains how science influences his politics
Scientific American spoke to the Michigan Senate candidate about how his background in medicine has shaped his outlook
Inside Larry Ellison's Wide Web of Power, Money and Politics, As Oracle's Data Centers Claim Force Majeure
The $200 billion software titan has suctioned himself to many hubs of influence—from data centers to TikTok to Hollywood studios to the Oval Office itself. Tom Dotan dives deep into Ellison’s kingdom, starting on the island enclave of Lanai.
Democratic Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed explains how science influences his politics
Scientific American spoke to the Michigan Senate candidate about how his background in medicine has shaped his outlook
Talarico Talks Personal History, Policy at U.S. Hispanic Business Council Event
The Democratic U.S. Senate discussed the oil and gas industry, healthcare, and rural Texas.
Bengals hosted 5 players on workouts, signed multiple
The Bengals got to work with roster moves after an injury bug.
Champaign County clerk seeking more election judges
“As it stands, we currently have 148 judges who have been trained and signed up to work on Election Day. We need a minimum of 270 judges and would love
Software engineer switched to cybersecurity and landed at Google
Prerit Pathak worked as a software engineer before switching to cybersecurity and joining Google. He shared his advice for making the pivot.
Goal for Elvedi as Switzerland ease past Scotland at Hampden
Nico Elvedi marked his 75th international appearance with a goal as Switzerland recorded a convincing 3-0 victory over Scotland in the UEFA Nations League at Hampden Park.The Leeds United defender sta...
Ford CEO: AI needs people to fix the robots
Ford CEO Jim Farley says AI could change or eliminate some finance jobs while leaving skilled-trades work more insulated.
Appalachian Murder Mystery dinner theater event coming to Aspire! Conservatory
ASHLAND, Ky. — The question is simple: who killed Elias Blackwood?
Grayson Gallery accepting submission for Halloween-themed art show
GRAYSON, Ky. — The Grayson Gallery Board and volunteers will host the annual Halloween-themed art show with an opening reception and costume contest set for Oct. 30, the evening before
Tunica-Biloxi Tribe set to launch prediction market app with Kalshi
The app will allow customers to bet on real world events, such as weather forecasts, political races and Oscar winners through SaltTrade Derivatives, a new tribal business that harkens back to the Tunica-Biloxi’s history as salt traders.
Rahm Emanuel, former Chicago mayor, tours New Orleans schools. 'Louisiana is working.'
Rahm Emanuel, the former Mayor of Chicago and former Ambassador to Japan, toured New Orleans schools on Wednesday as he floats a presidential run in 2028.
22-year-old rides toward future in cattle business
Agri-Ready Profile: Colton Devore is gaining experience the old-fashioned way as a farmhand, learning the skills for his own beef cattle operation.
Husker football scouting report: Maryland
This Saturday, Nebraska hosts Maryland in another conference showdown. Several key pieces within the Terrapins indicate they could bring a challenge to the Huskers.
Business Technology Isn’t One Category: 7 Areas Leaders Should Know Before Modernizing
Effective modernization starts with strategic clarity. Leaders should understand these seven core technology areas before investing in AI, systems and digital infrastructure.
Washington Post Osprey Story Blurs the Line Between Science and Special Interests
Article Repeats Unproven Claims Without Explaining Where They Exceed the Scientific and Regulatory Record
When The Lease Outlasts The Business Model
At the same time that AI may change the business model for law firms, requiring fewer lawyers, they are leasing more office space
Working Ports | Episode 5: Charting the Course - Connecting the Port, Business and Opportunity
Galveston's port does more than move ships, cargo and passengers. Its economic impact reaches into businesses, infrastructure, jobs and industries throughout the community.
How The Golden State Valkyries Built A WNBA Business Powerhouse
The Golden State Valkyries built a WNBA business powerhouse in two seasons, driving record attendance, 12,000+ season ticket holders and a No. 2 playoff seed.
AI safety measures widely backed by most Americans, poll finds
WASHINGTON — A vast majority of Americans favor requiring artificial intelligence companies to meet independent safety benchmarks for their models, even if those standards mean slowing development of the technology,
Keshaun Singleton Is Becoming More Than Auburn's Leading Receiver
Keshaun Singleton is becoming Auburn football's most trusted playmaker under Alex Golesh. With 22 catches for 268 yards through four games, the Tigers receiver is making clutch catches, delivering key blocks and emerging as one of the SEC's most complete weapons.
Jackson County Health Department hosts walk-in clinics for flu season
The Jackson County Health Department will host walk-in clinics across Murphysboro and Carbondale to help make flu and COVID-19 vaccines more accessible.
Flick sets Oct. 5 Capitol events for custody bill
Rep. Jamie Flick (R-Lycoming/Union) announced Oct. 5 Capitol press conference, Judiciary hearing and panel on House Bill 1499 child custody reform.
Threads Dance Project marks 15 years with 'Love Evolving'
Threads Dance Project is marking its 15th anniversary this fall with Love Evolving, a retrospective celebrating the Minneapolis dance company's history while introducing new work shaped by stories from the
Laufer recognizes UVA Health advocacy group with resolution
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Virginia Del. Amy Laufer recognized UVA Health's Nursing Advocacy Initiative with a bipartisan resolution that praises the initiative's three years of work training nurse ambassadors
Andrew Scott Could Make Oscars History With This ‘Incredibly Personal’ Role
“It’s set in the theater and about the representation of gay actors in the ’90s, and it’s about family,” the Irish actor said of “Elsinore.”
3 Towson University students among 17 facing firearms charges after shooting
BALTIMORE — Three of the 17 people facing firearms charges following a weekend shooting near Towson University are enrolled there as students, the university said Wednesday. A Towson University spokesperson
Knicks Make Two Early Cuts to Training Camp Roster
The Knicks are wasting no time, reshaping their training camp roster just a day after it began.
Dance for heroes lights up palm beach for veterans
Palm Beach Ray of Hope hosts “Dancing with the Palm Beach Stars” at Mar-a-Lago on February 27, 2027, supporting local veterans through their partnership with Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Britain Politics Labour
Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham delivers his Leader's Speech during the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, England, Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Jon Super)
Federal judge allows Paramount-Warner merger to move forward
A federal judge in Oakland has approved a settlement that allows Paramount Skydance Chief Executive David Ellison to finalize his $111 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Ellison is aiming
Carbondale dad deep into national Super Dad contest
CARBONDALE — A local dad is in the running for a national contest with a simple message: a super dad is a present dad.
Meet the Wonder Gardens’ new CEO brings fresh plans
Sally Mulvena, new CEO of Wonder Gardens, aims to blend modernization with historical preservation while enhancing visitor experiences at this 90-year-old Bonita Springs attraction.
No practice for Tyjae Spears
Titans RB Tyjae Spears not on practice field because of ankle injury
‘Digger’ review: Climate change satire will leave you feeling cold
Alejandro G. Iñárritu's latest film, starring an unrecognizable Tom Cruise, wears out its welcome far too quickly, writes Moira Macdonald.
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Michigan Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, with Progressive Twitch streamer Hasan Piker standing behind him, during an election event at the Congregation coffee shop on Aug. 3 in Detroit.
Everywhere Millionaires: The Overlooked Main Street Businesses Behind America’s Economy
Explore “Everywhere Millionaires” and how Main Street business owners in construction, logistics, and food service may build enterprise value over time.
Gustavo Sá Dismisses Comparison Between Greek and Portuguese Leagues
Olympiacos midfielder Gustavo Sa reflects on his record-breaking tenure at Famalicão while detailing why the tactical quality of Portuguese football remains a step ahead of the Greek Super League.
An immersive 'Dune' experience is coming to downtown Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES — An interactive, floor-to-ceiling walk-through "Dune" attraction is coming to Los Angeles in November, and it promises spectacle, as well as a bit of mystery. Step around, and
Lady A's Charles Kelley reveals rare blood cancer diagnosis
LOS ANGELES — Lady A singer Charles Kelley has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare type of blood cancer. The country star shared his diagnosis in a video posted
Google's new Gemini 4 model could put it back on the AI frontier
Google said its new Gemini 4 matches OpenAI's frontier Astra model in cyber defense, and outpaces rivals in some areas.
Kristen Millares Young debuts first memoir ‘Desire Lines’
We spoke to Seattle writer Millares Young in advance of her book launch for "Desire Lines" at Elliott Bay Book Company on Oct. 9.
Ma urges California to be more business friendly
CA treasurer would prioritize business as lt. governor.
Ma urges California to be more business friendly
CA treasurer would prioritize business as lt. governor.
Art therapy program targets veterans in Palm Beach County
A 2023 Census Bureau profile for Palm Beach County lists a total of 58,187 Veterans, including 53,744 males and 4,443 females. Many of these veterans suffer from depression, anxiety, antisocial
Favorite European cities to visit, from American living in Europe
As an American living in the Netherlands, I love traveling around Europe. Some of my favorite European cities to visit include Budapest and Bath.
"Like Screaming Into A Void": Students, Teachers Decry Health Hazards In Schools
“This is basic dignity we’re asking for,” said Brandon Daley. The high school senior at Metropolitan Business Academy was one of nearly 30 students, teachers, parents, and advocates to offer publicly testimony to alders on Tuesday at a hearing about school facilities that drew roughly 100 people to City Hall.
VIDEO | Plot Twist: Making Delaware a film and entertainment hub through tax credits
Now that Delaware's film tax credit is up and running, what is the actual potential for making The First State a hub for creators?