If the thesis that a theory is always underdetermined by the evidence adduced in its support, then a consequence of this is that ...
A) all theories that are supported by the same body of evidence are compatible.
B) different or incompatible theories are supported by or at least compatible with the same body of evidence.
C) no scientific will ever be fully compatible with all possible evidence.
D) every scientific theory will eventually be shown to be false.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a theory is always underdetermined by the evidence, then it is possible for different or even incompatible theories to be supported by the same body of evidence. This means that there is no necessary incompatibility between different scientific theories, which supports choice B. Choices A and D are incorrect because they are too extreme and don't follow from the underdetermination thesis. Choice C is also incorrect because it is too strong - some scientific theories may be fully compatible with all possible evidence.

If the Thesis That a Theory Is Always Underdetermined by the Evidence