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Scientific observations can serve as objective tests of theory, even though they may be embedded in theory. This is due to the external causation of the phenomena which are observed. This can lead to observations within the theoretical framework which nonetheless violate the predictions of the theory. The doctrine of background independence holds that observations should be separate from the theory they test, but this is unnecessary.

According to Deborah Mayo, in assessing the evidential value of observations use-novelty is not a criterion but claims that such novelty is valuable only when it leads to severity. Weakness in Mayo's criticism of use-novelty is exposed and defended use-novelty is considered as a valuable methodological principle.

Abstract: Our task in the paper is to examine some recent experiments (in the period 1996–2002) bearing on the issue of whether there is dark matter in the universe in the form of neutralino WIMPs (weakly interacting massive particles). Our main focus is an experiment performed by the DAMA group that claims to have found an ‘annual modulation signature’ for the WIMP. DAMA''s result has been hotly contested by two other groups, EDELWEISS and CDMS, and we study the details of the experiments performed by all three groups. Our goal is to investigate the philosophic and sociological implications of this controversy. Particularly, using an innovative theoretical strategy suggested by (Copi, C. and L. M. Krauss (2003). Comparing interaction rate detectors for weakly interacting massive particles with annual modulation detectors. Physical Review D, 67, 103507), we suggest a new way of resolving discordant experimental data (extending a previous analysis by (Franklin, A. (2002). Selectivity and discord. Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press). In addition, we are in a position to contribute substantively to the debate between realists and constructive empiricists. Finally, from a sociological standpoint, we remark that DAMA''s work has been valuable in mobilizing other research teams and providing them with a critical focus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]