The simplest explanation is usually the simplest. There is no need to develop many theories (the plurality of) if a simple one suffices. When two explanations are given to a question, the simpler of the two is usually the correct one. This is because we make judgements based on empirical (senses) evidence. This is Occam’s Razor or the Law of Parsimony. By adhering to this philosophical theory, William Occam would argue that you save both time and effort.
For example,
- if a murder takes place police should look towards a family member or someone known to the victim first. The records indicate that the killer usually knows the victim, also usually male, so this is the simplest solution. ‘54.3 percent were killed by someone they knew (acquaintance, neighbor, friend, boyfriend, etc.); 24.8 percent of victims were slain by family members.’ FBI, 2011
- if you are religious, events can be explained by their gods. Jesus walked on water and this can be explained simply by Christians because he was the son of God.
- when the First World War ended, the blame was placed onto Germany. They were seen to have started the conflict, invading Belgium and then France, so they must be held responsible. It was the simplest solution, and this theory still holds weight today.
However, skeptics use Occam’s Razor for a different purpose. It allows them to consider other explanations. Moreover, there is no evidence that simplicity means accuracy or truth.
- if you are an atheist, events cannot be explained by a deity’s actions or thoughts, and scriptures can be critiqued for their reliability.
- the countries which are affected by Covid-19 pandemic the worst are those whose political leadership are poor. But there could be a myriad of other reasons why and, as yet, the crisis is not over so the years ahead may give us more qualified answers.
