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Causation Quote by William James

“Science must constantly be reminded that her purposes are not the only purposes and that the order of uniform causation which she has use for, and is therefore right in postulating, may be enveloped in a wider order, on which she has no claim at all.” quote by William James
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“Science must constantly be reminded that her purposes are not the only purposes and that the order of uniform causation which she has use for, and is therefore right in postulating, may be enveloped in a wider order, on which she has no claim at all.”

William James

About This Quote

Source Lecture: Pragmatism, 1907

Science should recognize its limits and that broader orders exist beyond its scope.

In simple terms: Science has limits; broader truths exist.

Key Takeaway

Respect interdisciplinary perspectives.

Themes

philosophy science humility

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • research projects
  • policy making
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

Epistemology pluralism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What realms lie beyond scientific explanation?
  • How can we integrate non‑scientific insights?
A Different Perspective

Science cannot answer all questions alone.

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