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Changed Quote by Karl Popper

“The metaphysical doctrine of determinism simply asserts that all events in this world are fixed, or unalterable, or predetermined. It does not assert that they are known to anybody, or predictable by scientific means. But it asserts that the future is as little changeable as is the past. Everybody…” quote by Karl Popper
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“The metaphysical doctrine of determinism simply asserts that all events in this world are fixed, or unalterable, or predetermined. It does not assert that they are known to anybody, or predictable by scientific means. But it asserts that the future is as little changeable as is the past. Everybody knows what we mean when we say that the past cannot be changed. It is in precisely the same sense that the future cannot be changed, according to metaphysical determinism.”

Karl Popper

About This Quote

Determinism holds that past and future are unchangeable, regardless of knowledge or predictability.

In simple terms: Past and future are fixed.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits of control.

Themes

determinism free will causality philosophy

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • ethical decision making
  • personal responsibility
  • scientific research
  • life planning

Key Concepts

metaphysics science

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you believe you can change outcomes?
  • How does determinism affect moral responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Human agency may still influence perception of outcomes.

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