ABSTRACT
The scientist strives to make the internal mental world of theory and the external physical world of fact fit like ferrules. Each is incomplete and, indeed, functionless without the other; and when properly fitted there is no discrepancy or disagreement between the two, but only the sweet conformity of a well-made fishing-rod. So far we have made only the butt-end of the rod, and the female ferrule; or, rather, we have made a variety of butt-ends, some elegant and some crazy botched affairs, but all alike incomplete, and all awaiting the test of whether they will receive the male ferrule of fact. Some will no doubt prove too narrow to be united at all; others will be so broad that they could accommodate any conceivable partner, and the actually realized possibilities of the world will slop about inside them like a stick in a bucket. One – we can hope – will be just right.
