The history and ideas of critical rationalism: the philosophy of Karl Popper and its implications for OR

Abstract

Critical rationalism is the philosophy developed by Karl Popper during the middle of the 20th century. Popper's approach is based on the naturalistic idea that society has developed through a process of solving problems using trial and error. The natural and social sciences have been born out of such problem solving and progressed by subjecting potential theories to vigorous testing and criticism. Falsified theories are rejected. Popper calls for a society which is conducive to such problem solving, a society which permits bold theorizing followed by unfettered criticism, a society in which there is a genuine possibility of change in the light of criticism: an open society. Popper's ideas provide a doorway for accessing philosophical ideas and debates relevant to OR. For some such as Boothroyd it has proved inspirational, for others such as Ulrich it has provided a critical point of departure.