9. INDUCTIVE ASSUMPTION JUSTIFIED.
The function of induction seems to be to universalize particulars. The mind of man has ever been engaged in establishing connections among the concrete experiences of daily life. This ability of his to generalize his individual experiences has been one of the chief agencies in elevating him to the position of “King of the animal world.” In this disposition to generalize man has taken it for granted that nature is honest; that what she tells him under given conditions, she will tell him again under identical conditions. To put it in logical terms man can depend upon the invariability of nature’s activities, or upon the uniformity of nature. Here, then, is one of the most fundamental laws not only of induction but of all activity. But this law implies a second quite as fundamental. If every cause is invariably followed by the same effect under like conditions, then it is thereby implied that every cause has an affect and every event is due to some cause. This, too, is invariable. In consequence of these facts man is justified in thinking that nature is not only honest and therefore “she gives me confidence, but her every activity means something and therefore she arouses my curiosity.” “Uniformity of nature” engenders confidence, “universal causation” inspires the spirit of discoveryand with these two weapons man is willing to venture into the jungle of the unknown. Why is man eager to undertake the “inductive hazard?” Because, through the laws of universal causation and uniformity of nature, his curiosity is aroused, and he is given confidence in nature’s activities.