Hypotheses

This from Phaedrus:

"The number of rational hypotheses that can explain any given phenomenon is infinite (p. 139, ZAMM)".

Pirsig next tells us that "it pleased him (Phaedrus) never to run out of hypotheses". Am currently re-reading ZAMM, largely in response to the deep impression that Shop Class as Soulcraft had on me (see Nice Job). I must say, I agree with Phaedrus about hypotheses. Facile explanations of biological phenomena should always be viewed with caution. [NOTE: Photo shows Robert Pirsig and son, Chris, at a rest stop in North Dakota during the motorcyle trip on which Zen and the Art of Motocycle Maintenance is based]. 

Comments

[Wayne]

This takes me back to reading this as an underground and the mix of emotions and thoughts it stirred just as I was beginning to be really engaged by lab science, had taken a philosophy of science class and had only months earlier driven cross country on my bike.

Thanks for posting -- and for tagging to the Crawford book; maybe I can find the time to check that out.

"hello" to your family

[chuck]

Sounds like you were ripe for the book. Am having fun reading it again. As a parent now, a bit uncomfortable with a few of the interactions between Pirsig and Chris, but the philosophy and life view are still as real and rich as ever. Thanks for your comment. Have passed on your "hello".