Skip to content

In general, we mean by any concept nothing more than a set…

“In general, we mean by any concept nothing more than a set of operations; the concept is synonymous with the corresponding set of operations.” quote by Percy Williams Bridgman
Download Open image
“In general, we mean by any concept nothing more than a set of operations; the concept is synonymous with the corresponding set of operations.”

Percy Williams Bridgman

About This Quote

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

A concept is defined by the actions that can be performed with it, not by an abstract idea.

In simple terms: Concepts equal their operations.

Key Takeaway

Identify actions to clarify ideas.

Themes

philosophy epistemology science

Mood

analytical neutral

Type

definitional explanatory

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • software design
  • legal analysis

Key Concepts

Operationalism definition methodology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do operations shape our understanding of a concept?
  • Can a concept exist without observable actions?
A Different Perspective

May overlook intrinsic qualities beyond observable actions.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Percy Williams Bridgman

Explore all 21 Percy Williams Bridgman quotes

More Concepts quotes

Browse all 2,468 Concepts quotes