Analysis Quote by Wilhelm Wundt
“Hence, even in the domain of natural science the aid of the experimental method becomes indispensable whenever the problem set is the analysis of transient and impermanent phenomena, and not merely the observation of persistent and relatively constant objects.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Foundations of Experimental Psychology, 1904
Scientific study of fleeting phenomena needs experiments, not just observation of stable objects.
In simple terms: Study change with experiments.
Key Takeaway
Use experiments for transient events.
Themes
science
methodology
change
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- physics
- biology
- social science research
Key Concepts
experimental design
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- What transient phenomena interest you?
- How can you design a simple experiment?
A Different Perspective
Experiments can be costly and complex.
![“Philosophers of science constantly discuss theories and representation of reality, but say almost nothing about experiment, technology, or the use of knowledge to alter the world. This is odd, because 'experimental method' used to be just another name for scientific method… I hope [to] initiate a…” quote by Ian Hacking](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1bb/ian-hacking-9085_experimental-science_philosophers-of-science-constantly-discu_2595149.jpg)
