Generality Quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein
![“Our craving for generality has [as one] source … our preoccupation with the method of science. I mean the method of reducing the explanation of natural phenomena to the smallest possible number of primitive natural laws; and, in mathematics, of unifying the treatment of different topics by using a…” quote by Ludwig Wittgenstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/088/ludwig-wittgenstein-582_ludwig-wittgenstein_our-craving-for-generality-has-as-one-so_2998590.jpg)
““Our craving for generality has [as one] source … our preoccupation with the method of science. I mean the method of reducing the explanation of natural phenomena to the smallest possible number of primitive natural laws; and, in mathematics, of unifying the treatment of different topics by using a generalization. Philosophers constantly see the method of science before their eyes, and are irresistibly tempted to ask and answer in the way science does. This tendency is the real source of metaphysics, and leads the philosopher into complete darkness. I want to say here that it can never be our job to reduce anything to anything, or to explain anything. Philosophy really is “purely descriptive.””
About This Quote
Wittgenstein argues that the scientific drive to reduce explanations to simple laws leads to metaphysics, which he sees as merely descriptive, not explanatory.
In simple terms: Science’s reductionism fuels metaphysics, which is descriptive, not explanatory.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of reductionist explanations in philosophy.
Themes
philosophy
science
reductionism
metaphysics
Mood
critical
intellectual
Type
theoretical
academic
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- philosophical inquiry
- teaching philosophy
Key Concepts
epistemology
methodology
descriptive analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- Can descriptive work alone guide action?
- What is the value of unifying theories?
A Different Perspective
The view may undervalue the role of synthesis in understanding.
