Single Idea 17676

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 3. Best Explanation / a. Best explanation]

Full Idea

The best explanation explains the most by means of the least. Explanation unifies.

Gist of Idea

Best explanations explain the most by means of the least

Source

David M. Armstrong (What is a Law of Nature? [1983], 05.4)

Book Reference

Armstrong,D.M.: 'What is a Law of Nature?' [CUP 1985], p.73


A Reaction

To get unification, you need to cite the diversity of what is explained, and not the mere quantity. The force of gravity unifies because it applies to such a diversity of things.