Single Idea 6791

[catalogued under 14. Science / C. Induction / 3. Limits of Induction]

Full Idea

If Hume is right about induction then there is no scientific knowledge.

Gist of Idea

If Hume is right about induction, there is no scientific knowledge

Source

Alexander Bird (Philosophy of Science [1998], Ch.5)

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.172


A Reaction

The first step is to recognise that induction is not deductively valid, but that does not make it irrational. If something happens five times, get ready for the sixth. If we discover the necessary features of nature, we can predict the future.