Single Idea 16176

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

Full Idea

Much criticism of the original covering-law model objects that it lets in too much. It seems we can explain Henry's failure to get pregnant by his taking birth control pills, and we can explain the storm by the falling barometer.

Gist of Idea

Covering-law explanation lets us explain storms by falling barometers

Source

Nancy Cartwright (How the Laws of Physics Lie [1983], 2.0)

Book Reference

Cartwright,Nancy: 'How the Laws of Physics Lie' [OUP 2002], p.45


A Reaction

I take these examples to show that true explanations must be largely causal in character. The physicality of causation is what matters, not 'laws'. I'd say the same of attempts to account for causation through counterfactuals.