According to Mach, what constitutes scientific understanding?

The correct response highlights the significance of understanding the nature of sensation and the organization of sensations, as emphasized by Ernst Mach, a key figure in the philosophy of science and psychology. Mach believed that scientific understanding is rooted in the observation of sensations and the relationships between them, rather than relying solely on abstract theories or concepts. His work focused on how our perceptions and sensory experiences shape our knowledge of the world, illustrating that a clear comprehension of sensations is essential for a robust scientific method.

This perspective aligns with empiricism, which argues that knowledge is derived from sensory experience. Therefore, to develop a scientific understanding, one must analyze how different sensations can be organized and interpreted. This approach contributed to later developments in fields like psychology, where understanding perception became crucial. Thus, the emphasis on sensations and their organization reflects a foundational aspect of how we build knowledge scientifically and philosophically.