Abstract
Four empirically equivalent versions of general relativity, namely standard GR, Lorentz-invariant gravitational theory,and the gravitational gauge theories of the Lorentz and translation groups, are investigated in the form of a case study for theory underdetermination. The various ontological indeterminacies (both underdetermination and inscrutability of reference) inherent in gravitational theories are analyzed in a detailed comparative study. The concept of practical underdetermination is proposed, followed by a discussion of its adequacy to describe scientific progress.
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Lyre, H., Eynck, T.O. Curve It, Gauge It, or Leave It? Practical Underdetermination in Gravitational Theories. Journal for General Philosophy of Science 34, 277–303 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:JGPS.0000005161.79937.ab
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/B:JGPS.0000005161.79937.ab