Single Idea 1897

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 7. Eliminating causation]

Full Idea

To know an effect belongs to a cause, we must also know that that cause belongs to that effect, and this is circular.

Gist of Idea

Knowing an effect results from a cause means knowing that the cause belongs with the effect, which is circular

Source

Sextus Empiricus (Outlines of Pyrrhonism [c.180], III.21)

Book Reference

Sextus Empiricus: 'Outlines of Pyrrhonism', ed/tr. Bury,R.G. [Prometheus 1990], p.193