To psychometrics, from thermometry

Since the 19th century, psychometrics has found false hope in reconstructions of thermometry’s history, as if the former’s failure to investigate whether psychological attributes are quantitative finds justification in the way understandings of temperature unfolded. Since David Sherry’s contribution, a number of psychologists have revived this old chestnut, so there may be merit in discussing the issues raised. First, that of temperature’s quantitative structure is considered. Second, the place of measurement theory is discussed. And third, the role of pragmatism and abductive inference is analysed. It is concluded that thermometry holds lessons for psychometrics; lessons not wanted but needed.