Thought experiments

Their wordsThe purpose of a thought experiment is to encourage speculation, logical thinking and to change paradigms.

Their wordsThought experiments push us outside our comfort zone by forcing us to confront questions we cannot answer with ease. They demonstrate gaps in our knowledge and help us recognize the limits of what can be known.

Their wordsThought experiments are a structured manifestation of our natural curiosity about the world.

Their wordsWith the aim of illustrating a particular concept (such as free will or mortality), philosophers explore imagined scenarios. The goal is not to uncover a ‘correct’ answer, but to spark new ideas.

Their wordsAlthough empirical evidence is usually necessary for science, thought experiments may be used to develop a hypothesis or to prepare for experimentation.