The framework that rejects the binary "science vs. pseudoscience" divide, arguing instead that all knowledge-seeking practices exist on a multidimensional continuum of epistemic rigor. The spectrum is defined by axes like: testability, openness to falsification, methodological transparency, peer consensus, predictive success, and self-correction. "Hard" physics sits at one end, characterized by math, precise prediction, and controlled experiments. "Softer" fields like sociology or evolutionary biology, which deal with complex, non-repeatable systems, occupy a different region, emphasizing explanatory coherence and consilience of evidence. Even protosciences and failed theories occupy a place on the spectrum based on their methods, not just their conclusions. Pseudoscience is not a different category, but the far end of the spectrum where practices become dogmatic, evidence is cherry-picked, and contrary data is explained away rather than incorporated.
Example: Consider three points on the spectrum. Physics is far along the "predictive precision" axis. Evolutionary Biology is strong on the "explanatory power/consilience" axis but weaker on "immediate testability in a lab." Homeopathy scores very low on "consistency with established knowledge" and "methodological rigor in trials," but might have mid-range scores on "social consensus" within its community. Science Spectrum Theory says the task isn't to draw a line, but to plot a practice's coordinates. A field can become more "scientific" by moving along these axes—like economics incorporating better data analysis—rather than by magically crossing a mythical demarcation border.
by Nammugal January 24, 2026
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