DWI. Note 7
Crude, Quantitative, and Qualitative Induction (cont.)
|
Crude induction is the only kind of induction that is capable of inferring
the truth of what, in logic, is termed a universal proposition. For what
is called "complete induction" is not inductive reasoning, but is logistic
deduction. We might further say, if we chose, that every crude induction
concludes a universal proposition; but this would be merely the expression
of a way of regarding matters. For any proposition concerning the general
run of future experience may be regarded as universal, even if it be "A pair
of dice will, every now and then, turn up doublets". The undipped heel of
crude induction is that if its conclusion be understood as indefinite, it
will be of little use, while if it be taken definitely, it is liable at
any moment to be utterly shattered by a single experience; for a series
of experiences, if the whole constitutes but a single one of the instances
to which an inductive conclusion refers, is to be regarded as a single
experience.
|
C.S. Peirce, VAVOI, CP 2.757.
