Beyond Demarcation: A Genealogical-Functional Framework for Epistemic Pluralism

ABSTRACT The demarcation problem has long resisted resolution due to essentialist definitions that fail to capture science's diversity. This paper develops an integrated epistemic framework synthesizing the genealogical spectrum (L1-L7), three modes of science (Revolutionary, Holistic, Adaptive), and insights from Cartwright and Dellsén. Science is defined as achievement of Level 5 empirical validation—demonstrated reliability in guiding successful practice—within one of three modes. The framework introduces two dimensions of generativity: L6a (scientific) producing new understanding, and L6b (practice) improving outcomes. Barriers including access, ethics, fragmentation, and overfitting explain why these dimensions often diverge. Epistemic regression (L7→L3, L6→L5, L5→L4) is distinguished from practical regression (L6b→negative). Application to string theory, microbiome research, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the Subak system demonstrates the framework's analytical power. The framework resolves demarcation by replacing "Is it science?" with functional analysis, accommodates Western and non-Western knowledge systems equally, and provides tools for diagnosing scientific progress, stagnation, and decline.