more on this theme     |     more from this thinker


Single Idea 17631

[filed under theme 14. Science / C. Induction / 2. Aims of Induction ]

Full Idea

The inferring of premises from consequences is the essence of induction.

Gist of Idea

Induction is inferring premises from consequences

Source

Bertrand Russell (Regressive Method for Premises in Mathematics [1907], p.274)

Book Ref

Russell,Bertrand: 'Essays in Analysis', ed/tr. Lackey,Douglas [George Braziller 1973], p.274


A Reaction

So induction is just deduction in reverse? Induction is transcendental deduction? Do I deduce the premises from observing a lot of white swans? Hm.


The 12 ideas from 'Regressive Method for Premises in Mathematics'

It seems absurd to prove 2+2=4, where the conclusion is more certain than premises [Russell]
Arithmetic was probably inferred from relationships between physical objects [Russell]
Which premises are ultimate varies with context [Russell]
The sources of a proof are the reasons why we believe its conclusion [Russell]
Non-contradiction was learned from instances, and then found to be indubitable [Russell]
Induction is inferring premises from consequences [Russell]
The law of gravity has many consequences beyond its grounding observations [Russell]
The most obvious beliefs are not infallible, as other obvious beliefs may conflict [Russell]
Believing a whole science is more than believing each of its propositions [Russell]
If one proposition is deduced from another, they are more certain together than alone [Russell]
Finding the axioms may be the only route to some new results [Russell]
Discoveries in mathematics can challenge philosophy, and offer it a new foundation [Russell]