more from Alexander Bird

Single Idea 6745

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / D. Laws of Nature / 4. Regularities / b. Best system theory]

Full Idea

The systematic (Ramsey-Lewis) regularity theory says that a regularity is a law of nature if and only if it appears as a theorem or axiom in that true deductive system which achieves a best combination of simplicity and strength.

Gist of Idea

A regularity is only a law if it is part of a complete system which is simple and strong

Source

Alexander Bird (Philosophy of Science [1998], Ch.1)

Book Reference

Bird,Alexander: 'Philosophy of Science' [UCL Press 2000], p.39


A Reaction

Personally I don't accept the regularity view of laws, but this looks like the best account anyone has come up with. Individual bunches of regularities can't add up to or demonstrate a law, but coherence with all regularities might do it.