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Experiments Quote by Imre Lakatos

“No experimental result can ever kill a theory: any theory can be saved from counterinstances either by some auxiliary hypothesis or by a suitable reinterpretation of its terms.” quote by Imre Lakatos
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“No experimental result can ever kill a theory: any theory can be saved from counterinstances either by some auxiliary hypothesis or by a suitable reinterpretation of its terms.”

Imre Lakatos

About This Quote

Theories survive by adapting with auxiliary ideas or reinterpretations when faced with contradictory data.

In simple terms: Ideas can be saved by tweaking them.

Key Takeaway

Adjust theories, not discard them.

Themes

science philosophy theory

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • research design
  • academic debate
  • policy making

Key Concepts

falsifiability methodology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it better to abandon a theory?
  • How to balance flexibility with rigor?
A Different Perspective

Over‑adjustment may mask real flaws.

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