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3 ideas
17481 | Nuclear charge (plus laws) explains electron structure and spectrum, but not vice versa [Hendry] |
Full Idea: Given relevant laws of nature (quantum mechanics, the exclusion principle) nuclear charge determines and explains electronic structure and spectroscopic behaviour, but not vice versa. | |
From: Robin F. Hendry (Chemistry [2008], 'Micro') | |
A reaction: I argue that the first necessary condition for essentialism is a direction of explanation, and here we seem to have one. |
4634 | Abduction aims at simplicity, testability, coherence and comprehensiveness [Baggini /Fosl] |
Full Idea: There are some 'principles of selection' in abduction: 1) prefer simple explanations, 2) prefer coherent explanations (consistent with what is already held true), 3) prefer theories that make testable predictions, and 4) be comprehensive in scope. | |
From: J Baggini / PS Fosl (The Philosopher's Toolkit [2003], §2.01) | |
A reaction: Note that these are desirable, but not necessary (pace Ockham and Ayer). I cannot think of anything to add to the list, so I will adopt it. Abduction is the key to rationality. |
4637 | To see if an explanation is the best, it is necessary to investigate the alternative explanations [Baggini /Fosl] |
Full Idea: The only way to be sure we have the best explanation is to investigate the alternatives and see if they are any better. | |
From: J Baggini / PS Fosl (The Philosopher's Toolkit [2003], §3.01) | |
A reaction: Unavoidable! Since I love 'best explanation', I now seem to be committed to investigation every mad theory that comes up, just in case it is better. I hope I am allowed to reject after a very quick sniff. |