A groundbreaking solution to the problem of induction, based on Ayn Rand's theory of concepts.
Inspired by and expanding on a series of lectures presented by Leonard Peikoff, David Harriman presents a fascinating answer to the problem of induction-the epistemological question of how we can know the truth of inductive generalizations.
Ayn Rand presented her revolutionary theory of concepts in her book Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology. As Dr. Peikoff subsequently explored the concept of induction, he sought out David Harriman, a physicist who had taught philosophy, for his expert knowledge of the scientific discovery process.
Here, Harriman presents the result of a collaboration between scientist and philosopher. Beginning with a detailed discussion of the role of mathematics and experimentation in validating generalizations in physics-looking closely at the reasoning of scientists such as Galileo, Kepler, Newton, Lavoisier, and Maxwell-Harriman skillfully argues that the inductive method used in philosophy is in principle indistinguishable from the method used in physics.
David Harriman holds a master’s degree in physics from the University of Maryland and a master’s in philosophy from Claremont Graduate University. Harriman has worked as an applied physicist and lectures regularly on the scientific revolution. He is also editor of The Journals of Ayn Rand. His op-eds have been published in USA Today, the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Sacramento Bee, and more. He is the cofounder of the nonprofit Falling Apple Science Institute, which is developing a distinct K-12 science curriculum centered on the inductive method.
View titles by David Harriman
A groundbreaking solution to the problem of induction, based on Ayn Rand's theory of concepts.
Inspired by and expanding on a series of lectures presented by Leonard Peikoff, David Harriman presents a fascinating answer to the problem of induction-the epistemological question of how we can know the truth of inductive generalizations.
Ayn Rand presented her revolutionary theory of concepts in her book Introduction to Objectivist Epistemology. As Dr. Peikoff subsequently explored the concept of induction, he sought out David Harriman, a physicist who had taught philosophy, for his expert knowledge of the scientific discovery process.
Here, Harriman presents the result of a collaboration between scientist and philosopher. Beginning with a detailed discussion of the role of mathematics and experimentation in validating generalizations in physics-looking closely at the reasoning of scientists such as Galileo, Kepler, Newton, Lavoisier, and Maxwell-Harriman skillfully argues that the inductive method used in philosophy is in principle indistinguishable from the method used in physics.
Author
David Harriman holds a master’s degree in physics from the University of Maryland and a master’s in philosophy from Claremont Graduate University. Harriman has worked as an applied physicist and lectures regularly on the scientific revolution. He is also editor of The Journals of Ayn Rand. His op-eds have been published in USA Today, the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Sacramento Bee, and more. He is the cofounder of the nonprofit Falling Apple Science Institute, which is developing a distinct K-12 science curriculum centered on the inductive method.
View titles by David Harriman
