Alternatives to Validity

Abstract

The conventional scientific preoccupation with validation of knowledge is challenged: One might say that it itself lacks validity. Campbell's endorsement of it in his article in this issue of Knowledge is the point of departure. Noting that Campbell assumes rather than argues the case for such a preoccupation, this article proceeds to examine the grounds on which it might be justified and the counterarguments. It also suggests what other kinds of activities social scientists engage in other than pursuing valid knowledge, and why it makes sense that they do.