Single Idea 17673

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / e. Lawlike explanations]

Full Idea

The whole modern conception of the world is founded on the illusion that the so-called laws of nature are the explanations of natural phenomena.

Gist of Idea

The modern worldview is based on the illusion that laws explain nature

Source

Ludwig Wittgenstein (Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus [1921], 6.371)

Book Reference

Wittgenstein,Ludwig: 'Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus (Pears)', ed/tr. Pears,D. /McGuinness,B. [RKP 1961], p.70


A Reaction

Love it! Not only does it say that lawlike explanation is wrong, but it registers that this is a profound feature of the modern view of the world, and not just a slightly misguided philosophical theory.