b. 1967
P. Kyle Stanford is an American philosopher of science at the University of California, Irvine, known for his work on scientific realism and the problem of unconceived alternatives. His 'New Induction' challenges scientific realism by arguing that historical scientists repeatedly failed to conceive of theoretical alternatives that later proved superior.
Formulated the 'Problem of Unconceived Alternatives' as a challenge to scientific realism
Authored 'Exceeding Our Grasp: Science, History, and the Problem of Unconceived Alternatives' (2006)
Developed the 'New Induction' over the history of science
Contributed to debates on instrumentalism and antirealism
Professor of Logic and Philosophy of Science at UC Irvine