Engineering Quote by Phillip Johnson-Laird
“A theory may be so rich in descriptive possibilities that it can be made to fit any data.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Mental Models, Phillip Johnson‑Laird, 1990
A theory can be so flexible that it can be forced to explain any data, risking loss of predictive power.
In simple terms: Over‑flexible theories lose usefulness.
Key Takeaway
Seek theories with falsifiable predictions.
Themes
scientific method
theory evaluation
epistemology
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research design
- data analysis
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
philosophy of science
model selection
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you test a theory's limits?
- What criteria ensure a model remains meaningful?
A Different Perspective
Flexibility may be needed for early-stage ideas; too much rigidity can stifle innovation.
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