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Falsifiability: What Makes a Theory Scientific
Karl Popper's criterion that separates science from pseudoscience
If no possible evidence could prove a claim wrong, does it tell us anything meaningful?
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Karl Popper proposed that a theory is scientific only if it makes predictions that could, in principle, be shown to be false. This 'falsifiability criterion' is how we distinguish science from pseudoscience.
Astrology says 'the stars influence your destiny.' No observation could disprove this—any outcome can be reinterpreted to fit. That's exactly what makes it unscientific.
Falsifiability isn't just for scientists. When someone tells you a theory that can explain every possible outcome, be suspicious. Real insight comes from claims that stick their neck out.
Quick Check
Which of these best captures what you just read?
It's okay to be wrong. The thinking process is what matters.
Quick Check
Question 1 of 3According to Popper, a scientific theory must be: