ad hoc hypotheses are a gang of crooks

Categories: Comparisons

An example of a metaphor:

"…according to psychoanalysis certain infantile experiences originate aggressiveness but, if the case is found of timorous behaviour when aggressive behaviour ought to occur, the finding is not counted as a counterexample: the ad hoc hypotheses is introduced that the subject has formed a reaction against his natural bent. In this way unfavourable evidences cannot occur and the innocent is persuaded by a gang of accomplices that are never caught because they supply each other with alibis."

Mario Bunge

Bunge, M. (2017/1998). Philosophy of Science. Volume 1: From problem to theory (Revised ed.). Routledge. (1967)

Author: Keith

Former school and college science teacher, teacher educator, research supervisor, and research methods lecturer. Emeritus Professor of Science Education at the University of Cambridge.