Full Idea
We only understand something when we know its explanation.
Gist of Idea
We only understand something when we know its explanation
Source
Aristotle (Posterior Analytics [c.327 BCE], 71b30)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Posterior Analytics (2nd ed)', ed/tr. Barnes,Jonathan [OUP 1993], p.3
A Reaction
If we believe that the whole aim of philosophy is 'understanding' (Idea 543) - and if it isn't then I am not sure what the aim is, and alternative aims seem a lot less interesting - then we should care very much about explanations, as well as reasons.
Related Idea
Idea 543 All men long to understand, as shown by their delight in the senses [Aristotle]