Inference to the Best Explanation and Disjunctive Explanations
Inference to the Best Explanation and Disjunctive Explanations
Author(s): Jaeho LeeSubject(s): Logic, Analytic Philosophy
Published by: Filozofický ústav SAV
Keywords: David Armstrong; Helen Beebee; Disjunctive explanation; Inference to the best explanation;
Summary/Abstract: In this paper I will examine Helen Beebee’s argument that anti-Humeans are not in a better position to justify induction. I will first argue that her argument proves too much and that it can jeopardize the status of inference to the best explanation as a useful inductive principle. I will then propose a principle that should govern our use of disjunctive explanations in the context of inference to the best explanation and show that Beebee’s use of disjunctive explanations violates this principle.
Journal: Organon F
- Issue Year: 22/2015
- Issue No: 2
- Page Range: 143-162
- Page Count: 20
- Language: English