more from Rom Harré

Single Idea 15887

[catalogued under 14. Science / C. Induction / 5. Paradoxes of Induction / a. Grue problem]

Full Idea

In introducing the predicate 'grue' we also introduce an additional causal hypothesis into our chemistry and physics; namely, that when observed grue emeralds change from blue to green.

Gist of Idea

'Grue' introduces a new causal hypothesis - that emeralds can change colour

Source

Rom Harré (Laws of Nature [1993], 5)

Book Reference

Harré,Rom: 'Laws of Nature' [Duckworth 1993], p.103


A Reaction

[The 'when observered' is a Harré addition] I hate 'grue'. Only people who think our predicates have very little to do with reality are impressed by it. Grue is a behaviour, not a colour.