more from Willard Quine

Single Idea 16933

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

Full Idea

What makes Goodman's example a puzzle is the dubious scientific standing of a general notion of similarity, or of kind.

Gist of Idea

Grue is a puzzle because the notions of similarity and kind are dubious in science

Source

Willard Quine (Natural Kinds [1969], p.116)

Book Reference

Quine,Willard: 'Ontological Relativity and Other Essays' [Columbia 1969], p.116


A Reaction

Illuminating. It might be best expressed as revealing a problem with sortal terms, as employed by Geach, or by Wiggins. Grue is a bit silly, but sortals are subject to convention and culture. 'Natural' properties seem needed.