Full Idea
Darwin's theory of evolution was accepted by the scientific community because of its systematizing and explanatory power, and in spite of its lack of novel predictive success.
Gist of Idea
The theory of evolution was accepted because it explained, not because of its predictions
Source
J Ladyman / D Ross (Every Thing Must Go [2007], 2.1.3)
Book Reference
Ladyman,J/Ross,D: 'Every Thing Must Go' [OUP 2007], p.78
A Reaction
I am keen on the centrality of explanation to all of our thinking, metaphysical as well as physical, so I like this one. In general I like accounts of science that pay more attention to biology, and less to physics.
Related Idea
Idea 16861 A false theory could hardly rival the explanatory power of natural selection [Darwin]