Single Idea 17078

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 1. Explanation / c. Direction of explanation]

Full Idea

The theory of the expansion of the universe renders the red shift no longer puzzling, whereas he expansion of the universe is hardly rendered less puzzling by facts about the red shift.

Clarification

The 'red shift' is in the light coming from galaxies

Gist of Idea

Universe expansion explains the red shift, but not vice versa

Source

J.J.C. Smart (Explanation - Opening Address [1990], p.15)

Book Reference

'Explanation and Its Limits', ed/tr. Knowles,Dudley [CUP 1990], p.15


A Reaction

The direction of explanation is, I take it, made obvious by the direction of causation, with questions about what is 'puzzling' as mere side-effects.