Derivative Quote by Ludwig von Mises
“Scientific research sooner or later, but inevitably, encounters something ultimately given that it cannot trace back to something else of which it would appear as the regular or necessary derivative. Scientific progress consists in pushing further back this ultimately given.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Human Action by Ludwig von Mises, 1949
Science discovers facts that are not derivable from earlier premises; progress means tracing explanations farther back toward ultimate givens.
In simple terms: Science finds ultimate facts; progress pushes explanations deeper.
Key Takeaway
Seek deeper causes, not just surface explanations.
Themes
philosophy
science
methodology
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
theoretical
reflective
When to use this quote
- research design
- policy analysis
- philosophical inquiry
- education curriculum development
Key Concepts
epistemology
causality
foundations
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions underlie your search for ultimate causes?
- How do you handle unknowable foundations?
A Different Perspective
Assumes ultimate givens exist and are identifiable, which may be contested.
