From Microscopes to Optogenetics: Ian Hacking Vindicated

John Bickle

9 citations0/0 files storedPhilosophy of Science

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Philosophy and History of Science Philosophy, Science, and History Cybernetics and Technology in Society

Abstract

Abstract I introduce two new tools in experimental neurobiology, optogenetics and DREADDs (designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs). These tools permit unprecedented control over activity in specific neurons in behaving animals. In addition to their inherent scientific interest, these tools make an important contribution to philosophy of science. They illustrate the very premises of Ian Hacking’s “microscope” argument for the relative independence of experiment from theory. This new example is important for generalizing Hacking’s argument because the background sciences (optics for microscopes, molecular biology for optogenetics, and DREADDs) and the fields of engineering producing these tools differ significantly.

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1983Representing and Intervening 2007Explaining the Brain 2003Philosophy and Neuroscience 2010Reconsidering ‘spatial memory’ and the Morris water maze 2013Engineering the Next Revolution in Neuroscience 2015Validating Animal Models

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2018Connection experiments in neurobiology

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