Single Idea 5854

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

Full Idea

Nobody is on his guard against a disease that nobody has yet caught.

Gist of Idea

Nobody fears a disease which nobody has yet caught

Source

Aristotle (The Art of Rhetoric [c.350 BCE], 1372a27)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'The Art of Rhetoric', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,H.C. [Penguin 1991], p.121


A Reaction

A beautifully simple indication of one problem with induction. In a dangerous situation, you can't wait around for a few experiences in order to learn the regularities and rules. Either you are doomed, or you must explain using related experiences.