Thinking method · Popper, The Logic of Scientific Discovery

State what would refute it

Testing whether a claim is the kind of thing evidence could ever settle. Any theory, prediction or strategy you are relying on.

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Testing whether a claim is the kind of thing evidence could ever settle.

The steps

1. Write the claim out precisely enough that it could turn out to be false.
2. Ask: what observation would show this is false?
3. If you cannot name one, the claim is not making a testable prediction — note that plainly.
4. If you can, go and look for it, rather than for confirmations.
5. One clear disconfirmation is worth more than a hundred confirmations.

When to use it

Any theory, prediction or strategy you are relying on.

What it will not do

Unfalsifiable does not mean worthless — values and meaning are not testable. It means do not treat it as a finding.

Where it comes from: Popper, The Logic of Scientific Discovery. Described in our own words.