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inference to the best explanation


Subject Philosophy

DOI: 10.1111/b.9781405106795.2004.x


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P hilosophy of science A kind of reasoning that is common in both daily life and science. If we observe that a, b, c, … are true, and if there is a hypothesis H which can best explain all these cases, then it is probable that H is true. This is a non-demonstrative deduction , sometimes called a hypothetical deduction. The confirmation of a scientific theory is essentially an inference to the best explanation. This method of reasoning resembles the process that Peirce calls abduction . There are many discussions surrounding this method of reasoning, such as how to make it precise, whether it is really different from inductive reasoning, and what is the criterion for determining which of several competing hypotheses is the best. “The standard presentation of the link between the empirical adequacy and truth of a theory is known as the inference to the best explanation. Since it aims to exploit the truth-conducive virtues of explanation it is most effectively applied to causal explanation.” Kosso, Reading the Book of Nature . ... log in or subscribe to read full text

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The Blackwell Dictionary of Western Philosophy



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