Chauncey Wright Quotes

A collection of quotes by Chauncey Wright.

Chauncey Wright (1830–1875) was an American philosopher and mathematician, known for his contributions to pragmatism and skepticism. Born in Massachusetts, he became a prominent member of the Metaphysical Club, alongside future influential figures like Charles Sanders Peirce and William James. Wright advocated for a scientific and empirical approach to philosophical inquiry, rejecting abstract metaphysical speculation. His writings and lectures on the theory of knowledge and scientific methodology had a lasting impact on American philosophy, despite his untimely death at the age of 45.

If they are, then the only ultimate truths are the particula

If they are, then the only ultimate truths are the particulars of concrete experience, and no postulate or general assumption is inherent in science until its proceedings become systematic, or the truths already reached give direction to further research.

Chauncey Wright

Experience Truth Science

All observers not laboring under hallucinations of the sense

All observers not laboring under hallucinations of the senses are agreed, or can be made to agree, about facts of sensible experience, through evidence toward which the intellect is merely passive, and over which the individual will and character have no control.

Chauncey Wright

Experience

We receive the truths of science by compulsion. Nothing but

We receive the truths of science by compulsion. Nothing but ignorance is able to resist them.

Chauncey Wright

Truth Science

The accidental causes of science are only accidents relative

The accidental causes of science are only accidents relatively to the intelligence of a man.

Chauncey Wright

Intelligence