Chapter 11. Current Measurement Practices—Lessons from the Field

If we take in our hand any volume of divinity or school metaphysics, for instance, let us ask: does it contain any abstract reasoning concerning quantity or numbers? No. Does it contain any experimental reasoning concerning matter of fact or existence? No. Commit it then to the flames, for it can contain nothing but sophistry and illusion.

—David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding