Logic / Unit 7 Logic 356 short lesson, about 20 seconds
What Makes an Explanation Best
Captions available
The idea
The criteria: explanatory scope, simplicity, conservatism with established knowledge, and testability.
In practice
Two theories fit the data; the one requiring three coincidences and a conspiracy loses on simplicity.
Where people slip
The criteria can conflict — a bolder theory may explain more. Ranking explanations is judgment, guided but not mechanized by the list.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
Unlocks
- Nothing yet depends on this.
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