The following text is from a sociology of science article.
The demarcation problem asks how to distinguish science from non-science. Popper proposed falsifiability as the criterion: scientific theories must make predictions that could potentially be proven false. Yet many accepted sciences don't fit this model neatly, while some pseudosciences can manufacture false predictions. Contemporary philosophers of science increasingly question whether any single criterion can demarcate science from non-science.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To argue that falsifiability successfully defines science
To describe a philosophical problem and challenges to proposed solutions
To provide examples of unsuccessful scientific theories
To compare funding for different scientific fields
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The text describes the demarcation problem, Popper's solution, and challenges to that solution (poor fit, pseudoscience, skepticism about single criteria).
- Evidence: The text defines the problem: "demarcation problem asks how to distinguish science from non-science." It notes a solution: "Popper proposed falsifiability." It notes challenges: "Yet many accepted sciences don't fit... philosophers... question whether any single criterion can demarcate."
- Reasoning: The passage introduces a philosophical puzzle, a famous attempt to solve it, and why that attempt failed.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to describe a problem and challenges.
💡 Strategy: Summarize: Science vs. Pseudoscience. Popper tried, but it's hard.
Choice A is incorrect because falsifiability is challenged. Choice C is incorrect because unsuccessful theories aren't the focus. Choice D is incorrect because funding isn't discussed.