Scientific Explanation

International Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2nd edition, 2015, vol. 21, pp. 302-307

6 Pages Posted: 25 May 2016

Date Written: 2015

Abstract

There are three main approaches to scientific explanation in the philosophical literature. The unification approach claims that science explains by fitting the particular facts and events within a general theoretical framework. The mechanistic approach claims that science explains by identifying mechanisms. According to the manipulationist approach an explanation ought to be such that it can be used to answer a “what-if-things-had-been-different question.” The article examines whether these three approaches are compatible or not in the case of the social sciences, and it concludes by defending explanatory pluralism.

Keywords: Scientific Explanation, Pluralism, Mechanisms, Econometrics

JEL Classification: B4

Suggested Citation

Mantzavinos, C., Scientific Explanation (2015). International Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2nd edition, 2015, vol. 21, pp. 302-307, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2782755

C. Mantzavinos (Contact Author)

University of Athens ( email )

5 Stadiou Strt
Athens, 12131
Greece

HOME PAGE: http://www.mantzavinos.org

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