Single Idea 17066

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / c. Explanations by coherence]

Full Idea

3: If two analogous propositions separately explain different ones of a further pair of analogous propositions, then the first pair cohere with one another, and so do the second (explananda) pair.

Gist of Idea

3: If an analogous pair explain another analogous pair, then they all cohere

Source

report of Paul Thagard (Explanatory Coherence [1989], 3) by J.J.C. Smart - Explanation - Opening Address p.04

Book Reference

'Explanation and Its Limits', ed/tr. Knowles,Dudley [CUP 1990], p.4