Meehl on metatheory

Abstract

This article proffers a critical survey of Paul E. Meehl's thoughts on the philosophy of science, as well as constructive criticisms of his views on corroboration of scientific theories. Using examples from clinical psychology and allied domains, six major topics are addressed: (a) the nature of theoretical constructs, (b) statistical diagnosis of clinical categories, (c) detection of hypothesized taxa, (d) null-hypothesis significance testing, (e) complexified hypothesis testing, and (f) cliometric theory appraisal. Through numerous examples, it is shown that Paul Meehl had a superb ability to recognize, articulate, and clarify hidden complexities, and other underappreciated obscurities in important working concepts.

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