Ah, then it sounds like your real problem is that you’re not yet skilled enough at explaining what evidence means, in an easy-to-grasp sort of way.
I admit that I do have problems with clearly articulating a position; I see this as an indication of insufficient understanding. Well, that’s the reason I ended up here at all...
In the case of your homeopathy example, I would say that the thing that matters is: what percentage of patients given homeopathic remedies get better?
Just to pound this example: It has been pointed out to me that clinical tests are not “the homeopathic way”. I have not yet discovered what the homeopathic way is, I just remained puzzled after reading that Hahnemann probably did not think so.
Sometimes I think going through the ideas in simple truth and map and territory may explain the reason why clinical tests are evidence. However, when your discourse partner has some philosophy weapons at his disposal, the following epistemology-war quickly grows over my head.
I may try to get more facts (studies, etc.) in my head, and also to form an approachable explanation for why this view on reality is justified, more than others. If all else fails, this will at least help to improve my own understanding. Thx for your comments.
I admit that I do have problems with clearly articulating a position; I see this as an indication of insufficient understanding. Well, that’s the reason I ended up here at all...
Just to pound this example: It has been pointed out to me that clinical tests are not “the homeopathic way”. I have not yet discovered what the homeopathic way is, I just remained puzzled after reading that Hahnemann probably did not think so.
Sometimes I think going through the ideas in simple truth and map and territory may explain the reason why clinical tests are evidence. However, when your discourse partner has some philosophy weapons at his disposal, the following epistemology-war quickly grows over my head.
I may try to get more facts (studies, etc.) in my head, and also to form an approachable explanation for why this view on reality is justified, more than others. If all else fails, this will at least help to improve my own understanding. Thx for your comments.