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A framework for inter-level explanations: outlines for a new explanatory pluralism
1Ghent University, Belgium. raoul.Gervais@UGent.be
Studies in History and Philosophy of Science
|January 10, 2015
Summary
Explanatory pluralism suggests pragmatic factors determine explanation levels. This study revises this, proposing explanation grain size arises from pragmatic and non-pragmatic factors, offering a new framework for understanding explanatory relationships.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- Epistemology
- Causal Inference
Background:
- Explanatory pluralism posits pragmatic factors dictate the appropriate level of scientific explanation.
- Current models lack specific guidelines for choosing between higher- or lower-level explanations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To revise explanatory pluralism by incorporating non-pragmatic factors in determining explanation grain size.
- To develop a framework for classifying relations between explanations at different levels.
- To provide guidelines for selecting appropriate explanatory levels.
Main Methods:
- Distinguishing explanations of single vs. multiple causal processes.
- Analyzing the interplay of pragmatic and non-pragmatic factors.
- Developing a novel framework for explanatory relations.
Main Results:
- Explanation grain size is determined by both pragmatic and non-pragmatic factors.
- A new framework is proposed for classifying relationships between different explanatory levels.
- Guidelines for selecting appropriate explanatory levels are outlined.
Conclusions:
- Standard explanatory pluralism requires revision.
- The proposed framework offers a more nuanced understanding of explanatory levels.
- Further development of the framework can enhance scientific explanation practices.
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