Single Idea 16576

[catalogued under 14. Science / C. Induction / 2. Aims of Induction]

Full Idea

Induction should be regarded as a principle of natural science. For otherwise you could not prove that every fire is hot, that all rhubarb is purgative of bile, that every magnet attracts iron.

Gist of Idea

Science is based on induction, for general truths about fire, rhubarb and magnets

Source

Jean Buridan (Questions on Aristotle's Physics [1346], I.15 f. 18vb), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 02.3

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.23


A Reaction

He is basing this on Aristotle, and refers to 'Physics' 190a33-b11.