Plamondon, Ann.  “Metaphysics and 'Valid Inductions'.”  Process Studies 3, no. 2 (Summer 1973): 91-99.

Abstract

The justification of inductive inference to theories and predictions which has been suggested by Mary Hesse depends on an analogical inference pattern.  This paper shows that a similar analogical inference pattern was described by Whitehead.  In addition, Whitehead argued that certain metaphysical doctrines (internal relations) were necessary, but not sufficient, to justify this inference pattern.  It is argued that Whitehead's argument is sufficiently general to show that any justifiable inference pattern involves metaphysical presuppositions.  [Abstract from The Philosopher’s Index]