Cosmology and theoretical pluralism

Abstract

This work discusses the presence of a dogmatic tendency in the main stream of modern cosmology. By means of a detailed reading of some texts which represent researchers in this area, we conclude that a dogmatic thinking does seem to exist in this particular area of research. We also discuss how badly this kind of thinking affects the development of modern cosmology, as well as a possible way of neutralizing its influence. The proposed solution lies in the philosophical thinking of the Austrian physicist Ludwig Boltzmann (1844-1906). In particular, we use his two main epistemological theses, theoretical pluralism and scientific theories as representation of nature, to show that once these theses are absorved into the scientific practice, there is no longer any reason for dogmatic attitudes.