Cases Quote by William Whewell
“The system becomes more coherent as it is further extended. The elements which we require for explaining a new class of facts are already contained in our system. In false theories, the contrary is the case.”
About This Quote
Source Book: History of the Inductive Sciences, 1840
A good theory expands to explain new phenomena using its existing parts, while bad theories cannot.
In simple terms: Strong theories incorporate new facts without new parts.
Key Takeaway
Build on existing frameworks.
Themes
science
theory
explanation
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
scientific
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- policy making
- scientific debate
Key Concepts
induction
coherence
explanatory power
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we test if a theory truly integrates new facts?
- What limits arise when extending a theory?
A Different Perspective
Complex systems may still need new concepts.
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