Meaning: The quote by Wilhelm Ostwald, a renowned scientist, delves into the concept of coherence in the context of science. He posits that the question of whether coherence obtains universally is not necessary to be answered in the given context, as only those parts where coherence has actually been found become part of science. This quote highlights the significance of coherence in scientific knowledge and the selection process through which certain elements become integrated into the realm of science.

The concept of coherence in science refers to the logical and systematic interconnectedness of ideas, theories, and observations within a particular scientific framework. It is essential for scientific knowledge to be coherent, as this coherence facilitates understanding, prediction, and the development of new theories and applications. In essence, coherence serves as a fundamental criterion for the inclusion of ideas and concepts into the domain of science.

Ostwald's assertion that only those parts where coherence has been found become part of science emphasizes the rigorous and selective nature of scientific inquiry. This suggests that scientific knowledge is not a random assortment of ideas and observations, but rather a carefully curated collection of coherent and interconnected elements. In this sense, coherence serves as a filtering mechanism, determining which elements are deemed suitable for inclusion in the body of scientific knowledge.

Furthermore, Ostwald's statement implies that coherence is a prerequisite for scientific legitimacy. Ideas and theories that lack coherence are likely to be dismissed or relegated to the periphery of scientific discourse. This underscores the importance of coherence as a standard by which the credibility and validity of scientific knowledge are evaluated.

The quote also raises the question of whether coherence is a universal characteristic of scientific knowledge. Ostwald's suggestion that this question need not be answered in the given context implies that the focus is on the coherence that has actually been found and integrated into science. This pragmatic approach underscores the practicality of emphasizing coherence where it has been identified, rather than engaging in speculative debates about its universal applicability.

From a philosophical standpoint, the notion of coherence in science aligns with the broader epistemological discussions about the nature of knowledge and its organization. Coherence theory of truth, for instance, holds that a belief is true to the extent that it coheres with other beliefs within a comprehensive and interconnected system of knowledge. In this context, Ostwald's emphasis on coherence aligns with the broader philosophical discussions about the criteria for establishing the validity and reliability of knowledge claims.

In conclusion, Wilhelm Ostwald's quote encapsulates the significance of coherence in scientific knowledge and the selective process through which coherent elements become part of science. It underscores the essential role of coherence in determining the legitimacy and inclusion of ideas and theories within the scientific domain. While leaving the question of universal coherence unanswered, the quote prompts reflection on the fundamental role of coherence in shaping scientific knowledge and its significance in evaluating the credibility of scientific claims.