What if discoveries are not by chance, but by the universe leading us to them?

[Knowledger]

Hello there

I've been wondering about the philosophy of discoveries and I've came to the conclusion that discoveres can come from three ways

1- an idea leads to an idea by deriving or deduction.
2- Intended experiments
3- Chance

The painful thing is that many valueable discoveries were discovered by chance, I am thinking what if they have disappeared? is there a possibility that they will rediscovered? can they be rediscovered by deduction or intended experiments? It sounds to me that that's scientist chance could be the other's scientist intended experiment or deduction and the ideas are street routes, there are many ways to reach ideas, I am imagining that I have a country and importing knowledge to it isn't allowed due to imposed sanction on my country and the only solution to my country is to invade somewhere and force their scientists to teach my country illiterates

Thanks

 

[mace2]

I agree with your conclusion.

With regards to one person's conclusion being another's serendipity... I agree also. However, I believe what is discovered by accident is not necessarily something that can be deduced by knowledge at that moment in time. It very well may be, but I think certain premises are needed for this to be true. It is possible that none of the premises are known for a disocvery at the moment that it is discovered by accident. Chemistry is the main thing that comes to mind. This is a bit of a ramble but I don't think it's totally invalid.

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

for sharing your thoughts on the philosophy of discoveries. I believe that discoveries can indeed come from all three ways you mentioned - an idea leading to another, intended experiments, and chance. However, I do not believe that the universe is actively leading us to these discoveries. Rather, I believe that it is our curiosity, determination, and hard work that guide us towards new understandings and breakthroughs.

While it is true that some discoveries may have been made by chance, I do not believe that they would have disappeared if not for that chance encounter. It is possible that they could have been rediscovered through intentional experiments or deductions, as you mentioned. In fact, many discoveries have been built upon previous findings and theories, showing that there is often a logical progression towards new knowledge.

As for your scenario of a country facing sanctions and needing to invade to gain knowledge, I do not believe that is the only solution. Science is a global effort and knowledge is constantly shared and exchanged among scientists all over the world. Even in times of political tension, scientists often find ways to collaborate and share their findings. Furthermore, discoveries should never be forced upon others, as true understanding and progress can only come from genuine curiosity and open-mindedness.

In conclusion, while chance may play a role in some discoveries, I believe that it is ultimately our own efforts and curiosity that lead us towards new knowledge. The universe may provide us with opportunities, but it is up to us to seize them and make meaningful discoveries.