Consequence Quote by John Henry Holland
“Looking back to data, we can see if the consequences are plausible; looking forward to theory, we can see if general principles are suggested.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Adaptation in Natural and Artificial Systems, 1975
Analyzing past data reveals plausible outcomes; theoretical models predict general principles for future scenarios.
In simple terms: Data shows past plausibility; theory predicts future principles.
Key Takeaway
Balance empirical evidence with theoretical insight.
Themes
science
methodology
prediction
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research design
- policy planning
- technology development
Key Concepts
causality
modeling
Questions to Reflect On
- When should data dominate over theory?
- How to test theoretical predictions empirically?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on theory can ignore contextual nuances.
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