In Defense of Scientific Empiricism

The main argument against scientific empiricism has been the idea that human senses are imprecise and do not constitute a valid guide to reality. This argument is wrong.

The senses are not imprecise; they are however incomplete. We see the visible light and not the rest of the electromagnetic spectrum. The rest of the electromagnetic spectrum, while it can't be seen, can be measured. At which point the incompleteness of human senses is redressed through measuring devices such as the radio telescope. The act of measurement therefore completes the senses and again makes them a valid guide to understanding reality.

Are senses imprecise? I can generally be certain that, if I see a bear, I am indeed seeing a bear. And while I cannot see the microwave spectrum, there are devices that can.

Empiricism is made complete through automatic measurement.

Making this possible is one of the most important directions for science and engineering to take.