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To pry into the secrets of this world, we must make…

“To pry into the secrets of this world, we must make experiments. But experiment is a clumsy instrument, afflicted with a fatal determinacy which destroys causality.” quote by Banesh Hoffmann
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“To pry into the secrets of this world, we must make experiments. But experiment is a clumsy instrument, afflicted with a fatal determinacy which destroys causality.”

Banesh Hoffmann

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Scientific inquiry relies on experiments, yet their deterministic nature can obscure true causal relationships.

In simple terms: Experiments can hide cause and effect.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of experimental causality.

Themes

science philosophy methodology

Mood

curious critical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • laboratory research
  • policy analysis
  • technology development

Key Concepts

determinism causality experimental design

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we complement experiments to reveal hidden causes?
  • What alternatives exist to pure experimentation?
A Different Perspective

Experiments may oversimplify complex systems.

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