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Abandon Quote by A.J. Ayer

“It is time, therefore, to abandon the superstition that natural science cannot be regarded as logically respectable until philosophers have solved the problem of induction. The problem of induction is, roughly speaking, the problem of finding a way to prove that certain empirical generalizations…” quote by A.J. Ayer
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“It is time, therefore, to abandon the superstition that natural science cannot be regarded as logically respectable until philosophers have solved the problem of induction. The problem of induction is, roughly speaking, the problem of finding a way to prove that certain empirical generalizations which are derived from past experience will hold good also in the future.”

A.J. Ayer

About This Quote

Source Essay: Language, Truth, and Logic, 1936

Science should be respected as logical even without philosophical proof of induction, challenging the superstition that only philosophers can legitimize it.

In simple terms: Science is logical without philosophers solving induction.

Key Takeaway

Accept scientific reasoning as valid.

Themes

science philosophy induction

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

academic critical

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • policy making
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

epistemology logic

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role should philosophy play in science?
  • How do we handle uncertainty in scientific predictions?
A Different Perspective

Philosophical critique can still improve scientific foundations.

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