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Full Idea
Inductions are not demonstrations, because they do not conclude on account of their form, since it is not possible to make an induction from all cases.
Gist of Idea
Induction is not demonstration, because not all of the instances can be observed
Source
Jean Buridan (Questions on Aristotle's Physics [1346], I.15 f. 18vb), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 02.3
Book Ref
Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.23
A Reaction
Thus showing that demonstration really is meant to be as conclusive as a mathematical proof, and that Aristotle seems to think such a thing is possible in physical science.
| 16793 | A thing is (less properly) the same over time if each part is succeeded by another [Buridan] |
| 16576 | Science is based on induction, for general truths about fire, rhubarb and magnets [Buridan] |
| 16577 | Induction is not demonstration, because not all of the instances can be observed [Buridan] |
| 16678 | Without magnitude a thing would retain its parts, but they would have no location [Buridan] |
| 16726 | Why can't we deduce secondary qualities from primary ones, if they cause them? [Buridan] |
| 1403 | A rational donkey would starve to death between two totally identical piles of hay [Buridan, by PG] |