Buddhist Demarcation Theory of Science

A demarcation framework inspired by Buddhist epistemology: science is distinguished by its embrace of dependent origination, non‑self, and the middle way between eternalism and nihilism. A scientific theory acknowledges that knowledge is interdependent, provisional, and non‑dogmatic. Pseudoscience asserts fixed essences, uncaused causes, or absolute certainty. Buddhist demarcation also values compassion and reduction of suffering as implicit goals. This theory challenges Western criteria while offering a non‑Western perspective on what makes inquiry authentic.

Buddhist Demarcation Theory of Science Example: “Buddhist demarcation theory rated psychology as scientific when it treated mental states as interdependent and impermanent, but pseudoscience when it reified ‘personality types’ as eternal essences.”

Buddhist Demarcation Theory of Science by Dumu The Void April 28, 2026