Single Idea 14988

[catalogued under 14. Science / B. Scientific Theories / 2. Aim of Science]

Full Idea

'Theories' based on bizarre, non-joint-carving classifications are unexplanatory even when true.

Gist of Idea

A theory which doesn't fit nature is unexplanatory, even if it is true

Source

Theodore Sider (Writing the Book of the World [2011], 03.1)

Book Reference

Sider,Theodore: 'Writing the Book of the World' [OUP 2011], p.23


A Reaction

This nicely pinpoints why I take explanation to be central to whole metaphysical enterprise.

Related Idea

Idea 14992 We don't care about plain truth, but truth in joint-carving terms [Sider]