Ideas from 'Mathematical Explanation' by Mark Steiner [1978], by Theme Structure

[found in 'Philosophy of Mathematics: anthology' (ed/tr Jacquette,Dale) [Blackwell 2002,0-631-21870-x]].

green numbers give full details    |     back to texts     |     expand these ideas

---

9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 3. Individual Essences

13230

Particular essence is often captured by generality

14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / e. Lawlike explanations

13229

Maybe an instance of a generalisation is more explanatory than the particular case

14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / m. Explanation by proof

13231

Explanatory proofs rest on 'characterizing properties' of entities or structure