The Methodological Implications of Resolving the Realism Debate

This paper explores the question of whether or not the resolution of the realism
question has any implications for scientific methodology. It proposes a solution to
the question that draws features from recent “deflationary” approaches to the realism
question. The normative methodological role of the deflationary approach is
then defended from the claim that no interpretative, normative or methodological
role is left for a deflationary position. An illustration of the utility of the approach is
demonstrated through a case study of the role that the realism question has played
in the field of quantum mechanics.

Keywords: realism, deflationary metaphysics, Quantum theory