The flawed logic of theory-free natural kind reasoning
NEW IDEAS IN PSYCHOLOGY, vol.80, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 80
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.newideapsych.2025.101219
- Journal Name: NEW IDEAS IN PSYCHOLOGY
- Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Psycinfo
- Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This paper critiques the theory-neutral Natural Kind Reasoning (NKR) in consciousness science. It demonstrates a methodological incompatibility arising from McKilliam's (2024) proposal: deploying Inference to the Best Explanation (IBE) within NKR directly contradicts the aspiration for theory-neutrality. I argue that IBE's inherent reliance on pre-existing theoretical frameworks undermines the possibility of a genuinely theory-neutral methodology for the science of consciousness.