Single Idea 16619

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / j. Explanations by reduction]

Full Idea

Nothing beyond qualities is perceived by the senses. …When we refer to the substance in which the qualities inhere, we do this through induction, by which we reason that some subject lies under the quality.

Gist of Idea

We observe qualities, and use 'induction' to refer to the substances lying under them

Source

Pierre Gassendi (Syntagma [1658], II.1.6.1), quoted by Robert Pasnau - Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671 07.1

Book Reference

Pasnau,Robert: 'Metaphysical Themes 1274-1671' [OUP 2011], p.116


A Reaction

He talks of 'induction' (in an older usage), but he seems to mean abduction, since he never makes any observations of the substances being proposed.