Single Idea 17684

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / e. Lawlike explanations]

Full Idea

Given the Regularity theory, the explanatory element seems to vanish. For to say that all the observed Fs are Gs because all the Fs are Gs involves explaining the observations in terms of themselves.

Gist of Idea

To explain observations by a regular law is to explain the observations by the observations

Source

David M. Armstrong (What is a Law of Nature? [1983], 06.7)

Book Reference

Armstrong,D.M.: 'What is a Law of Nature?' [CUP 1985], p.102


A Reaction

This point cries out, it is so obvious (once spotted). Tigers are ferocious because all tigers are ferocious (see?).