Being equal Quote by William of Ockham
“With all things being equal, the simplest explanation tends to be the right one.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical principle, 14th century
The simplest explanation, when all else equal, is likely correct.
In simple terms: Simplicity often signals truth.
Key Takeaway
Prefer simpler explanations when evidence is equal.
Themes
logic
parsimony
reasoning
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- problem solving
- scientific method
- decision making
Key Concepts
Occam's razor
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- When is a complex explanation justified?
- How do you balance simplicity and detail?
A Different Perspective
Complexity can be necessary for nuance.
![“Do not Bodies act upon Light at a distance, and by their action bend its Rays; and is not this action (caeteris paribus) [all else being equal] strongest at the least distance?” quote by Isaac Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f9c/isaac-newton-1226_action_do-not-bodies-act-upon-light-at-a-distan_90238.jpg)
![“[T]here is a methodological bias in favor of taking natural discourse literally, other things being equal. For example, unless there are clear reasons for construing discourse as ambiguous, elliptical, or involving special idioms, we should not so construe it.” quote by Tyler Burge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2be/tyler-burge-109585_ambiguous_t-here-is-a-methodological-bias-in-favor_377917.jpg)