The Tyranny of Simple Explanations

The Tyranny of Simple Explanations

8/15/2016

link

https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2016/08/occams-razor/495332/

summary

This article delves into the concept of Occam's Razor, a principle that suggests the simplest explanation is often the correct one. It traces the origins of Occam's Razor back to the 14th century and explores its application in various scientific disciplines, such as physics, cosmology, and medicine. The article discusses how Occam's Razor helps scientists make decisions when faced with multiple hypotheses or theories. It also highlights the limitations of the principle and the potential pitfalls of oversimplification. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of Occam's Razor and its significance in scientific reasoning.

tags

occam's razor ꞏ scientific method ꞏ problem-solving ꞏ philosophy of science ꞏ simplicity ꞏ parsimony ꞏ logical reasoning ꞏ razor principle ꞏ theoretical framework ꞏ hypothesis testing ꞏ scientific inquiry ꞏ scientific theories ꞏ scientific explanations ꞏ scientific thinking ꞏ critical thinking ꞏ cognitive bias ꞏ logical fallacies ꞏ scientific skepticism ꞏ evidence-based reasoning ꞏ logical principles ꞏ epistemology ꞏ razor of simplicity ꞏ scientific reasoning ꞏ hypothesis formulation ꞏ logical analysis ꞏ problem-solving techniques ꞏ scientific discovery ꞏ scientific process ꞏ scientific investigation ꞏ sound reasoning ꞏ principles of simplicity ꞏ problem-solving skills ꞏ intellectual rigor ꞏ scientific logic ꞏ scientific evidence ꞏ scientific theory construction ꞏ scientific models ꞏ scientific inference ꞏ scientific explanation ꞏ scientific debate ꞏ scientific validity ꞏ scientific progress