more from Ian Hacking

Single Idea 7459

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / a. Types of explanation]

Full Idea

Mathematics is the model for reasoning about necessary truths, but jurisprudence must be our model when we deliberate about contingencies.

Clarification

'Jurisprudence' studies the relationship between law and morality

Gist of Idea

Follow maths for necessary truths, and jurisprudence for contingent truths

Source

Ian Hacking (The Emergence of Probability [1975], Ch.10)

Book Reference

Hacking,Ian: 'The Emergence of Probability' [CUP 1975], p.86


A Reaction

Interesting. Certainly huge thinking, especially since the Romans, has gone into the law, and creating rules of evidence. Maybe all philosophers should study law and mathematics?