If there are four equations and only three variables, and no one of the equations is derivable from the others by algebraic manipulation then there is another variable missing.

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• Talcott Parsons:

  In so far as such a theory is empirically correct it will also tell us what empirical facts it shou

• Talcott Parsons:

  Now obviously the propositions of the system have reference to matters of empirical fact; if they d

• Talcott Parsons:

  Of course there may well be particular reasons why Spencer rather than others is dead, as there wer

• Talcott Parsons:

  Special emphasis should be laid on this intimate interrelation of general statements about empirica

• Talcott Parsons:

  That is, a system starts with a group of interrelated propositions which involve reference to empir

• Talcott Parsons:

  The functions of the family in a highly differentiated society are not to be interpreted as functio

• Talcott Parsons:

  The main concern of the study is with the outline of a theoretical system. Its minor variations fro

• Talcott Parsons:

  Thus, in general, in the first instance, the direction of interest in empirical fact will be canali

• Talcott Parsons:

  It is probably safe to say that all the changes of factual knowledge which have led to the relativi

• Talcott Parsons:

  It is that of increasing knowledge of empirical fact, intimately combined with changing interpretat