What is the difference between instrumentalism and Scientific Realism?

Instrumentalism and Scientific Realism are two contrasting positions within the philosophy of science that address the nature of scientific theories and their relationship to reality.

Instrumentalism, also known as instrumental positivism or instrumental empiricism, is a philosophical stance that views scientific theories as merely useful tools or instruments for predicting and explaining observable phenomena. According to instrumentalism, scientific theories are not meant to provide an accurate representation of the underlying reality or the unobservable entities postulated by the theory. Instead, they are seen as pragmatic devices that allow scientists to make successful predictions and manipulate the world around them. In other words, instrumentalists argue that the main purpose of scientific theories is to provide a practical framework for organizing and interpreting empirical data, rather than revealing the true nature of the world.

On the other hand, Scientific Realism is a philosophical position that asserts the existence of an external reality that is independent of our observations and theories. Scientific Realists believe that scientific theories aim to provide an accurate and objective description of this reality, including the unobservable entities and processes postulated by the theories. According to Scientific Realism, scientific theories should be understood as approximations of the truth, constantly improving and approaching a more accurate understanding of the world. Realists argue that scientific theories are not just useful tools for prediction and explanation, but they also provide genuine knowledge about the underlying reality.

In summary, the main difference between instrumentalism and Scientific Realism lies in their views on the relationship between scientific theories and reality. Instrumentalism sees theories as pragmatic tools for prediction and explanation, while Scientific Realism asserts that theories aim to provide an accurate representation of an external reality.