On the True Method of Induction
or
Investigative Induction: Real But Invisible

Hattiangadi, Jagdish (2006) On the True Method of Induction
or
Investigative Induction: Real But Invisible. In [2007] LSE-Pitt Conference: Confirmation, Induction and Science (London, 8 - 10 March, 2007).

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Abstract

Scientists apply Bacon’s investigative induction by first cataloguing experimental discrepancies among apparent natures of things. Induction begins by multiplying discrepancies, thus creating a puzzle with multiple clues. Solved puzzles thus give us power to produce those unusual, discrepant effects. Bacon’s experimental method, however, is not empiricist. Grasping things empirically, like receiving impressions on a wax tablet, presupposes that our senses cannot deceive us whenever we are deceived: we err in our interpretations. Empiricism thus leaves no objective discrepancies to resolve, as deception resides in our interpretation. Scientific induction, for all its success, becomes invisible to modern empiricist methodologists

Keywords:Bacon, Induction, Puzzle-solving, empiricism, "deception of the senses", ampliative, investigative, skepticism, Pyrrhonian, Inductive inference, deduction for experiments, experimantal method
Subjects:General Issues: Confirmation/Induction
General Issues: Explanation
General Issues: Experimentation
Conferences and Volumes:[2007] LSE-Pitt Conference: Confirmation, Induction and Science (London, 8 - 10 March, 2007)
ID Code:3109
Deposited By:Hattiangadi, Jagdish
Deposited On:28 December 2006