more on this theme     |     more from this thinker     |     more from this text

---

Single Idea 2458

[filed under theme 14. Science / B. Scientific Theories / 1. Scientific Theory ]

Full Idea

Theories function as links in the causal chains that run from environmental outcomes to the beliefs that they cause the inquirer to have.

Gist of Idea

Theories are links in the causal chain between the environment and our beliefs

Source

Jerry A. Fodor (The Elm and the Expert [1993], §4)

Book Ref

Fodor,Jerry A.: 'The Elm and the Expert' [MIT 1995], p.97