Single Idea 15144

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / g. Causal explanations]

Full Idea

Scientific practices such as prediction and explanation regarding causal phenomena are concerned not merely with kinds having essences, but also with kinds lacking them.

Gist of Idea

Explanation of causal phenomena concerns essential kinds - but also lack of them

Source

Anjan Chakravarrty (Inessential Aristotle: Powers without Essences [2012], 1)


A Reaction

Not quite clear what he has in mind, but explanation should certainly involve a coherent picture, and not just the citation of some underlying causal mechanism.