Single Idea 15556

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

Full Idea

The pursuit of general explanations may be very much more widespread in science than the pursuit of general laws.

Gist of Idea

Science may well pursue generalised explanation, rather than laws

Source

David Lewis (Causal Explanation [1986], IV)

Book Reference

Lewis,David: 'Philosophical Papers Vol.2' [OUP 1986], p.225


A Reaction

Nice. I increasingly think that the main target of all enquiry is ever-widening generality, with no need to aspire to universality.