Single Idea 16842

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / i. Explanations by mechanism]

Full Idea

We understand a phenomenon better when we know not just what caused it, but how the cause operated.

Gist of Idea

We want to know not just the cause, but how the cause operated

Source

Peter Lipton (Inference to the Best Explanation (2nd) [2004], 08 'the guiding')

Book Reference

Lipton,Peter: 'Inference to the Best Explanation (2nd ed)' [Routledge 2004], p.122


A Reaction

This is the key point behind the desire for 'mechanism' in explanation. It strikes me as undeniable.