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In order to disprove the assertion that all crows are…

“In order to disprove the assertion that all crows are black, one white crow is sufficient.” quote by William James
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““In order to disprove the assertion that all crows are black, one white crow is sufficient.””

William James

About This Quote

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

A single counterexample can refute a universal claim.

In simple terms: One white crow disproves all black crows.

Key Takeaway

Seek counterexamples to test broad statements.

Themes

logic philosophy critical thinking

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • debate
  • policy making
  • education

Key Concepts

falsifiability induction

Questions to Reflect On

  • What universal claim have you accepted without testing?
  • How can you find a counterexample in your field?
A Different Perspective

Counterexamples may be rare or hard to find.

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