among this pool are these: (a) explanatory power, (b)…
““among this pool are these: (a) explanatory power, (b) explanatory scope, (c) plausibility, (d) degree of "ad hoc-ness" and (e) conformity with other beliefs. The more explanatory power and scope and the more plausibility and conformity with other beliefs an explanation has, the better it is. The less ad hoc (adjusted, contrived, artificial) the explanation, the better as well. The trick is to subject all explanation options to these””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Evaluates explanations by power, scope, plausibility, and coherence, avoiding ad‑hocness.
In simple terms: Good explanations are powerful, broad, plausible, and consistent.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize coherent, evidence‑based reasoning.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
critical thinking
explanation
logic
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
Explanatory Power:1
Beliefs Explanatory:0
Explanatory Scope:1
Plausibility Conformity:1
Beliefs Explanation:0
When to use this quote
- academic research
- debate
- policy analysis
Key Concepts
theory of justification
scientific method
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess explanatory power?
- When is an explanation too ad‑hoc?
A Different Perspective
Complex criteria may be hard to apply in practice.