SOC SCI H1G Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Inductive Reasoning
Document Summary
The validity of inductive inference depends on assumption that pastis a good guide for the future. > not rationally justified because argument is circular (we know this because we are being skeptical -> important to question the foundation of beliefs & inductive reasoning lacks that foundation) Can only learn something after you experience it. Establishes how the human mind & memory works (naturalist) Matters of fact & real existence (empiricist perspective) Come from experience & induction, rather than deduction. Reasonings from experience (induction) is not rationally justified. Induction is a natural process & important to survival. Ex. know that will be burned if touch fire, etc. Natural process that trying to overcome is futile. Humans are not as unique as philosophical tradition suggests embrace it! We do not have some amazing power of reason that goes beyond our basic capabilities. Something that seems unique especially when compared to other philosophers. Holds onto his naturalist beliefs throughout his argument.