Single Idea 4802

[catalogued under 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / e. Lawlike explanations]

Full Idea

Explanation has to do with understanding; just citing a cause would not offer an adequate understanding, unless it was accompanied by the citation of a law that connects the two events.

Gist of Idea

Just citing a cause does not enable us to understand an event; we also need a relevant law

Source

Stathis Psillos (Causation and Explanation [2002], §8.2)

Book Reference

Psillos,Stathis: 'Causation and Explanation' [Acumen 2002], p.218


A Reaction

It is surely undeniable that being told the cause but not the law will increase our understanding. Understanding and explanation come in degrees. Full understanding would require an explanation of the law, and beyond. Any relevant truth helps.