The very hope of experimental philosophy, its expectation…
“The very hope of experimental philosophy, its expectation of constructing the sciences into a true philosophy of nature, is basedon induction, or, if you please, the a priori presumption, that physical causation is universal; that the constitution of nature is written in its actual manifestations, and needs only to be deciphered by experimental and inductive research; that it is not a latent invisible writing, to be brought out by the magic of mental anticipation or metaphysical mediation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Experimental philosophy assumes that nature's laws can be uncovered through observation and induction, rejecting hidden metaphysical explanations.
In simple terms: Science seeks to understand nature via observable evidence, not unseen speculation.
Key Takeaway
Rely on empirical evidence to build knowledge.
Themes
science
philosophy
induction
empiricism
methodology
Mood
analytical
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- research labs
- academic study
- policy analysis
- technology development
Key Concepts
causality
empirical method
theory building
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we guard against over‑reliance on induction?
- What role should theory play alongside observation?
A Different Perspective
Inductive reasoning can be limited by bias or incomplete data.