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Single Idea 22658

[catalogued under 14. Science / A. Basis of Science / 6. Falsification]

Full Idea

Each tester of the truth of a theory …acts as if it were true, and expects the result to disappoint him if his assumption is false. The longer disappointment is delayed, the stronger grows his faith in his theory.

Gist of Idea

Experimenters assume the theory is true, and stick to it as long as result don't disappoint

Source

William James (The Sentiment of Rationality [1882], p.42)

A Reaction

This is almost exactly Popper's falsificationist proposal for science, which interestingly shows the close relationship of his view to pragmatism. Believe it as long as it is still working.

Book Reference

James,William: 'Selected Writings of William James', ed/tr. Bird,Graham [Everyman 1995], p.42