Single Idea 14793

[catalogued under 18. Thought / D. Concepts / 4. Structure of Concepts / b. Analysis of concepts]

Full Idea

If one can define accurately all the conceivable experimental phenomena which the affirmation or denial of a concept could imply, one will have therein a complete definition of the concept, and there is absolutely nothing more in it.

Gist of Idea

The definition of a concept is just its experimental implications

Source

Charles Sanders Peirce (Essentials of Pragmatism [1905], I)

Book Reference

Peirce,Charles Sanders: 'Philosophical Writings of Peirce', ed/tr. Buchler,Justus [Dover 1940], p.252


A Reaction

Strictly, I would have thought you could only affirm or deny a complete proposition, rather than a concept. What should I do with the concept of a 'unicorn'? Note that all theories, such as empiricism or pragmatism, begin with an account of our concepts.