Before proceeding further, I shall speak of some characteristic marks which belong to such scientific processes as are now the subject of our consideration, and which may sometimes aid us in determining when the task has been rightly executed.
CHAPTER V.
Of Certain Characteristics of Scientific Induction.
Aphorism X.
The process of scientific discovery is cautious and rigorous, not by abstaining from hypotheses, but by rigorously comparing hypotheses with facts, and by resolutely rejecting all which the comparison does not confirm.
Aphorism XI.
Hypotheses may be useful, though involving much that is superfluous, and even erroneous: for they may supply the true bond of connexion of the facts; and the superfluity and errour may afterwards be pared away.
Aphorism XII.
It is a test of true theories not only to account for, but to predict phenomena.
Aphorism XIII.