Single Idea 16941

[catalogued under 14. Science / C. Induction / 1. Induction]

Full Idea

Induction expresses our hopes that similar causes will have similar effects.

Gist of Idea

Induction relies on similar effects following from each cause

Source

Willard Quine (Natural Kinds [1969], p.125)

Book Reference

Quine,Willard: 'Ontological Relativity and Other Essays' [Columbia 1969], p.125


A Reaction

Some top philosophers are also top teachers, and Quine was one of them, in his writings. He boils it down for the layman. Once again, he is pointing to the fundamental role of the similarity relation.