CHSE Odisha Class 12 Logic Solutions Chapter 7 Scientific Explanation

Odisha State Board CHSE Odisha Class 12 Logic Solutions Chapter 7 Scientific Explanation Questions and Answers.

CHSE Odisha 12th Class Logic Chapter 7 Question Answer Scientific Explanation

Group – A

Short type Questions with Answers
I. Answer with in Two/Three sentence.

Question 1.
What is explanation?
Answer:
According to I. M. copi and carl cohen, an explanation is a group of statements from which the thing to be explained can logically be inferred and whose acceptance removes its problematic and puzzling character.

Question 2.
What is popular explanation?
Answer:
The explanation which is based on the belief, tradition, false conception imaginary and super natural agency is called popular explanation. For example; cholera is caused due to the anger of goddess.

Question 3.
What is scientific explanation?
Answer:
The explanation which makes a fact plain and intelligible by discovering the causal connection is called a scientific explanation.
For example : The law of tide and the law of planetary motion can be explained by the law of gravitation.

Question 4.
What is analysis?
Answer:
Analysis means breaking up of a complex phenomena into its constituent factors. For example; we can explain the growth of a child by the factors such as food, rest, exercise, environment etc.

Question 5.
What do you mean by subsumption?
Answer:
Subsumption is a form of scientific explanation by which we bring a law under a higher law. For example, we explain the law of tides and Planetary motion by the law of gravitation and the law of gravitation by the law of relativity.

Question 6.
State the different kinds at scientific explanation according to mill.
Answer:
According to mill, scientific explaration is of three kinds, such as
(i) Analysis
(ii) Concatenation
(iii) Subsumption.

Question 7.
State the different forms of explanation according to Ernest Nagel.
Answer:
According to Ernest Nagel, scientific explanation is of four types, such as
(i) Deductive explanation
(ii) Probable explanation
(iii) Functional or Teleological explanation

Question 8.
What is called Teleological explanation?
Answer:
When we explain a fact with reference to purpose or end that is called teleogical explanation, for example, people work hard because they may prosper in future.

Question 9.
What is genetic explanation?
Answer:
When we explain a fact with reference to process of development that is called genetic explanation.
For example:
A fever is explained as a case of typhoid by observing gradual rise and fall of temperature in course of a week!

Question 10.
What is deductive explanation?
Answer:
The explanation which deduces fact or law from a higher law is calle deductive explanation.
For example;
from the law of gravitation the laws of tides and planetary motion are deduced.

Question 11.
What is concatenation?
Answer:
Concatenation makes the relation between cause and effect.
For example; The loud sound in the bell is possible through the electricity.

II. Answer with in Five/Six sentence :

Question 1.
State the features of scientific explanation.
Answer:
The following features are the main features of scientific explanation.
(i) It seeks for essential points of similarity.
(ii) It explains natural facts by natural agencies.
(iii) It aims at understanding the nature of the events and establishing general laws of wider scope.

Question 2.
State the features of popular explanation.
Answer:
The following points are the main features at popular explanation.

1. It satisfies the curiosity of an ordinary man and it is always concemaed with immediate . problems.
2. It takes any familiar or important event to be the cause of an event.
3. It is concerned with particular facts, so its scope is very limited.
4. This explanation refers unreal, imaginary and supernatural agencies.

Question 3.
State the purpose at explanation:
Answer:
(i) Explanation aims at satisfying the curiosity of a person.
(ii) Explanation extends our knowledge.
(iii) Explanation makes the things systematic and coherent.
(iv) It brings a fact under a general law.

Question 4.
What is probable explanation?
Answer:
Probable explanation is a form of explanation where a particular fact is of deduced from a higher law, rather we explain a fact in relation to a higher law. Here as the result is not always certain, so it is probable, when we explain that the fallness of a child is due to the fallness of his parents, our explanation is not deductive but we refer to Mandel’s law of heredity.

Question 5.
Distinguish between scientific explanation and popular explanation.
Answer:

1. Scientific explanation is based on real cause but popular explanation is based on blind beliefs dogmas, prejudics.
2. Scientific explanation satisfies the educated and scientists but popular explanation satisfies the commmon men.
3. Scientific explanation is always natural but popular explanation takes the help of a supernatural force.
4. Scientific explanation requires for framing a hypothesis.
5. Popular explanation provides explanation of a particular fact but scientific explanation provides a fact in general.
6. Popular explanation is not rational and logical but but scientific explanation is rational and logical but scientific explanation is rational, coherent and logical.

Group – B

Long Type Questions With Answers

Question 1.
What is explanation ? Discuss the nature and purpose of explanation.
Answer:
Explanation means making something plain for easy understanding. In our everyday life we come across many Strange and unnatural phenomena which require some explanation When facts are obscure and difficult to our understanding, we explain it do have a clear picture of the phenomenon. So explanation aims at making something orderly, systematic and coherent. Besides, it makes man free from difficulty and perplexity.

Nature of explanation:
1. Explanation involves the clarity of facts : If something is difficult to understand, we want to explain the facts. Here our explanation must be clear and the way of explanation must relate to the knowable facts. As a result, it would constitute a body of knowledge.

2. Explanation involves two processes of assimilation and discrimination : We understand a fact if it is assimilated to our body of knowledge. That means, the fact must come under a class already known to us. For example, if the term tiger is not understood to a child, we assimilate, it to a group of animal like dog, cat, bear etc. Then we discriminate or differentiate the tiger from the other animals.

We explain ‘robot’ as a human machine, that means mechanism made to act like a man. Here we group the robot under a class, human-machine, distinguish it from human and machine and clarify the meaning that it looks like a man but it has no life. It also works like a man. So explanation involves classification.

3. Explanation involves deduction or inference : We explain a fact either by passing a reason or by bringing it under a law. In order to explain a law, we deduce it from a higher law. When the water pipe bursts in a hill station during winter, we explain it by saying that the water inside the pipe has freezed. We explain it through a general law.

The law of tides is also explained by deducing it from the law of gravitation. Thus a fact is explained when it is inferred from another fact or law. Therefore, explanation involves an inference in which a fact is known to be the consequence of or deducible from a general law.

4. Explanation consists in finding out the cause of a given phenomenon : The aim of explanation is to make something plain and clear to our understanding. A difficult or obscure thing becomes plain and clear to us when we are able to find out its cause. When we explain the downfall of our family, we particularly answer he ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions. Indirectly we want to discover and prove the causal connection. We may expain that father’s death is the cause of our downfall.

Purpose of Explanation :
(1) Explanation aims at satisfying the curiosity of a person: Man is always curious about unknown things. He cannot remain satisfied due to his eagerness to know something, if something is unclear to him, he wants explanation by which he can understand through his system of knowledge. Explanation makes something clear and connects the known system of knowledge to unknown things. So explanation is an aid to discovery. Explanation of something satisfies a person if he understands the situation. If somebody ask ‘what is horro’ ? We can explain him through different situations. In this case, the person should be able to understand the situation, otherwise explanation has no value for him.

(2) Explanation extends our knowledge: Nature is full of mysteries. We have little knowledge about nature. So the scope of our knowledge is limited, in our every day life we interrogate nature to know more things. When the puzzling things are explained in relation to our prese. System of knowledge, we get satisfied and our knowledge extends, if the digestive system of a man will be explained scientifically, it will extend the knowledge of a person about the food and disease.

(3) Explanation makes the things systematic and coherent: In an experiment, explanation makes the line clear. A teacher explains the facts to make the experiment methodical, in a murder case, the situation and the nature of murder should be clear, otherwise further investigation would not be systematic and consistent. As it makes the meaning of a term clear the further investigation becomes easy.

(4) Explanation bring facts under a general law : Our knowledge consists of a system of laws. Every known fact comes under this system of laws. If there is any new fact which is unintelligible to us. We explain its nature or pattern ofbehaviour to bring it under our known system. To explain anything is to connect it with what we know. For example, we explain the law of tides by pointing out its similarity with the law of falling bodies. Explanation helps us to find out the cause of a phenomenon.

Question 2.
Give a pull account of popular explanation.
Answer:
Popular explanation is known as common explanation. Common man explains things on the basis of his belief. He does not take any scientific facts or laws in his explanation. Common man explains the fever of a person with reference to an evil force. Similarly common people also explain the lunar eclipse with reference to a supernatural being-Rahu’s devouring the moon. This kind of a layman’s explanation is popular in uncultured societies.

Characteristics :
(1) Popular explanation satisfies the curiosity of an ordinary man : An ordinary man ask a regarding the cause of flood and famine. It is popularly explained to him that flood and famine are caused due to the wrath of nature. Cholera is due to the wrath of a goddess.

(2) Popular explanation is a body of belief: Popular explanation is based upon superstition, tradition, popular beliefs, divine vision or revelation. A man who cherishes such opinions cannot give any satisfactory account in support of his basis. He accepts this kind of unscientific explanation without any criticism. This kind of explanation is true to him and there cannot be any other type better than this. So to him this popular explanation is ultimate and unerring. A religious person accepts the views or statements of saints or philosophers as infallible.

(3) Popular explanation is concerned with immediate problems : Common man in interested with questions of who and what. If there is an accident, a common man is generally more interested to know about the person who died in the accident or what happened to the driver. If he gets the answer he is satisfied.

(4) Popular explanation takes any familiar or important event to be the cause of an event: Without proper analysis a man takes the immediate antecedent to be the cause. A man attends dinner in a marriage and in the next morning he vomits blood and dies. We explain that he died because of the dinner, if a new bride comes to our family and mother dies, then we explain that new bride is the cause of our mothers death.

(5) Popular explanation refers to unreal, imaginary and supernatural agencies : Uneducated and uncultured people explain natural evenets through supernatural agencies. They explain an earthquake as the wrath of a god. Break out of cholera in a village is explained as the anger of a goddess. Here we cannot verify the agent.

(6) Popular explanation is concerned with particular facts & limited in scope : Explanation should not be confined to a particular fact. It must be able to explain some further facts. This condition is not satisfied in popular explanation is always circular common people believe in the words of saints. It a saint says that a woman will give birth to a son and it becomes true, then the people stick to that fact and run to him for blessings.

(7) Popular explanation is based on superficial points of similarity : Common people are satisfied by any good or bad analogies. If they find that two things resemble each other in certain points, they explain that the two things will resemble each other in all other points. We observed that two particular college students were talking to each other and soon after they got married. If we find any other similar talking between two students, we say that they are going to marry. If we find two college girls resemble in dress, food habits, manner etc. then we agree that they also resemble in their intelligence. These are popular explanations.

(8) Popular explanation is not systematic : We sometimes explain a thing to serve a particular problem, here we don’t go to the details of the phenomenon. So our explanation becomes temporary and causal. We don’t mind the truth and relevance of the statements. If the son of a rich man dies, we say that the rich man is a greedy fellow.

(9) Popular explanation does not create any problem for the common man : the common man is satisfied with what is obvious and familiar. Water flows down, apple falls on the ground, sky is blue are familiar natural facts. The common man never bothers about all these facts. He remains silent without asking any question regarding these abyious facts. So these facts do not pose a problem for any ordinary man. On the other hand, it creats a problem for the students of science, who genuinely think over the facts. Newton saw a problem in the falling of apple and discovered the law of gravitation. So there is another way of explaining the facts which is called scientific explanation.

Question 3.
Discuss the characteristics of Scientific explanation.
Answer:
Scientific explanation makes a fact plain and intelligible by connecting it with another fact which we know. Discovery of causal connection in an aid to scientific explanation. The same type of explanation may not satisfy all. What is satisfactory to an ordinary man may not be so to a scientist. A scientist explains the facts through laws which can be verified. A boy returns home from playground and vomits blood. Some people may say that he has been severely beaten by his playmates. Others may say that he has been frightened by some abnormal situation. These are made for the immediate solution of the problem, so these are called popular explanations. This type of explanation cannot satisfy all persons. A doctor examines the body and finds any chronic disease. Thus he relates the fact to other facts which can be scientifically verified. The second type of explanation is called scientific explanation.

Characteristic :
(1) Scientific explanation gives us the clear understanding of a thing : Scientific explanation connects a fact with other facts through a chain of causation. Flood is not caused due to the wrath of nature, it is connected with other facts, continuous heavy rainfall is the cause of flood. So blood and heavy rainfall are causally related Truth & relevance of the facts can be examined, hence our understanding is clear because we can verify this causal connection from our experience, in popular explanation we fail to verify the relevant facts.

(2) In scientific explanation the cause is verifiable : In a scientific explanation we passing the cause to explain a phenomenon, in this case the cause is verifiable law of gravitation is the cause of the falling bodies. This law can he indirectly verified by higher laws, in case of popular explanation we do not relate the facts with other facts. So the cause is not verifiable in popular explanation.

(3) In scientific explanation we explain the natural facts by natural agencies : Scientific explanation is not based upon blind beliefs, revelation and superstitions. It believe in observable evidences. Cholera is not caused due to the wrath of a goodness, but it is due some particular virus, popular explanation, refers to supernatural agencies which can not be observed.

(4) Scientific explanation is based upon the essential points of similarity: We explain a fact in terms of a fact or law or theory. We explain the law of planaetary motion through the law of gravitation. We also explain the increase of a disease by laws of facts. Popular explanation refers to superficial points of similarity.

(5) Scientific explanation is an aid to scientific enquiry : The aim of scientific enquiry is to establish a general truth. In order to find out the cause of malarial fever, we have to know what is malaria fever and then the nature of malaria fever. That means we explain the event scientifically in relation to a cause.

(6) Scientific explanation is related to hypothesis : Unless a fact is explained scientifically, we can’t form a hypothesis. Hypothesis guides our investigation. When the nature of malaria fever is explained, we form a hypothesis that bite of mosquito may be the cause of malaria fever. Lastly, we discover that bite of anopheles is the cause of malaria fever.

(7) Scientific explanation refers to deduction of laws : According to Carveth Read, “Scientific explanation consists in discovering, deducing and assimilating the laws of phenomenon”. Firstly, in order to explain phenomena we state the causal laws or general conditions of the phenomena. If the laws are not know, we discover them by framing hypothesis, in order to explain a law, we deduce it from a higher law. Lastly, in order to explain a fact or law, we assimilate it to other known facts or laws.

(8) Scientific explanation is theoretical in character and wider in scope : In scientific explanation we not only explain the facts for which the explanation is made but also other facts. The law of gravitation is not only the cause of falling bodies but also explains the rise and falls of dides and movement of the planets. So the explanation is wider in scope because it covers more facts than the initial once here we seek universal explanation.

(9) Scientific explanation is always systematic, universal & unified : An explanation must be true & relevant. The statement or the premise which is offered as explanation of a fact must be relevant and true. The truth and relevance of the statement can be verified directly or indirectly. In case of scientific explanation, the statements are verifiable, it bring a fact under a law and a law under a higher law. So it is systematic and unified, popular explanation is not systematic and unified.

In conclusion we may say that the scientific and popular explanation differ both in respect of the nature of the problem and the character of the explanation scientific explanation is universal and general, serving a theoretical purpose whereas popular explanation is particular and immediate, serving a practical purpose.

Question 4.
State & explain the different forms of scientific explanation according to carveth Read with concrete examples.
Answer:
According to carveth Read & Mill, there are three forms of scientific explanation. These are analysis, concatenation & subsumption.
(i) Analysis : Analysis means breaking up of a complex phenomenon into its constituent factors. While explaining a fact scientifically, we must analyse the factors which jointly produce the effect. The path of a food ball depends upon the law of initial force, resistance of air and law of gravitation. We explain the growth of a tree by the factors responsible such as the seed, water, climatic, conditions, soil, the manures etc.

(ii) Concatenation : We cannot explain a thing directly at every time. We have to bring out the intermediary links between cause and effect. Concatenation is bringing out this intermediary steps between cause and its remote effect, we ordinarily explain that electricity directly produces the loud sound in the bell. But when we link different steps of causation, we find that electricity produces that, expands air, air moves the mechanical part of the bell & it produces a loud sound.

(iii) Subsumption : It is a form of explanation by which we bring a law under a higher law. We explain facts through laws or secondary laws through primary laws. Subsumption belongs to the second type. We explain the law of ides & planetary motion through the general law of gravitation.

According to Nagel, there are four foms of scientific explanation. These are-
(i) Deductive Model Explanation : Scientific explanation involves deduction, it: consists in deducing a fact or law from a higher law. From the law of gravitation, the law of tides.and planetary motion are deduced. The law of gravitation is also deduced from the theory of relativity. We go on deducing the lower law from the higher laws till we reach at the level of facts. From the law of falling bodies, we can explain the fall of my book from hand by deduction.

(ii) Probabilistic Explanation : This is a form of explanation where a particular fact is not deduced from a higher law, rather we explain a fact in relation to a higher law. The result of the law is not certain in all cases. It is true in most of the cases. That is why it is known as probabilistic explanation. When we explain that the fallness of a child is due to the fallness of parents our explanation is not deductive but we refer Mandel’s law of heredity.

(iii) Functional or Teleological Explanation : The word ‘teleology’ is derived from the word ‘teleos’ which means purpose or end. When we explain a fact with reference to purpose or goal, our explanation is teleological. Everybody struggles for existence because self-preservation is the goal of life people work hard because they may prosper in future.

(iv) Genetic Explanation : Sometimes we explain a fact with reference to the process of development we explain that the defeat of a ruling party is the logical development of its method of operation. A fever is explained as a case of typhoid by observing the gradual rise & fall of temperature in course of a week. Similarly we explain the occurrence of tuberculosis in a particular person by tracing its development to excessive drinking and smoking habits.

Question 5.
What is the significance of the scientific method ? Is it the same as the inductive procedure?
Answer:
The scientific method is a systematic and empirical approach to inquiry that forms the foundation of scientific investigation. It provides a structured process for formulating and testing hypotheses, gathering evidence, and drawing conclusions. The significance of the scientific method lies in its ability to facilitate objective, reliable, and evidence-based knowledge generation, fostering the advancement of scientific understanding and innovation. While the scientific method and the inductive procedure share some common elements, they are not synonymous. The inductive procedure is a broader approach encompassing various methods, including the scientific method.

Significance of the Scientific Method :

1. Empirical Rigor : The scientific method emphasizes empirical observation and experimentation. This ensures that scientific conclusions are grounded in real-world evidence, contributing to the credibility and reliability of scientific knowledge.

2. Objectivity and Impartiality : Objectivity is a crucial aspect of the scientific method. By minimizing bias and subjectivity, scientists aim to maintain impartiality in their investigations. This enhances the trustworthiness of scientific findings and promotes consensus within the scientific community.

3. Systematic Inquiry : The scientific method provides a systematic framework for inquiry, guiding researchers through a series of well-defined steps. This structure facilitates clarity in experimental design, data collection, and analysis, leading to more rigorous and organized research.

4. Hypothesis Testing : Hypothesesvwhich are educated guesses or predictions, form an integral part of the scientific method. Through systematic testing, scientists can evaluate the validity of their hypotheses, allowing for the refinement of theories and models based on empirical evidence.

5. Cumulative Knowledge : The scientific method encourages the accumulation of knowledge over time. As new evidence emerges, scientific theories can be modified or expanded to incorporate the latest insights. This iterative process contributes to the dynamic nature of scientific understanding.

6. Replicability and Verification : The scientific method places a strong emphasis on the replicability of experiments. Findings that can be independently verified by other researchers lend additional support to scientific conclusions, promoting confidence in the reliability of the results.

7. Predictive Power : A hallmark of successful scientific theories is their ability to make accurate predictions. The scientific method allows scientists to develop models that not only explain observed phenomena but also predict future outcomes. This predictive power is essential for practical applications and technological advancements.

8. Openness to Revision: Scientific knowledge is inherently open to revision. The scientific method encourages scientists to revise theories in light of new evidence, ensuring that the understanding of natural phenomena evolves and improves over time.

9. Communication and Peer Review : The scientific method promotes communication and collaboration within the scientific community. Through peer review, scientists critically evaluate each other’s work, helping to identify errors, validate results, and enhance the overall quality of scientific research.

10. Ethical Considerations : The scientific method incorporates ethical considerations, emphasizing transparency, honesty, and integrity in research practices. This commitment to ethical standards enhances the trustworthiness of scientific investigations.

Distinction Between the Scientific Method and the Inductive Procedure :
While the scientific method and the inductive procedure share common elements, they represent distinct concepts in the realm of scientific inquiry.

•  Scientific Method :
  1. The scientific method is a specific and systematic approach to scientific inquiry that includes steps such as observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, data collection, analysis, and conclusion drawing.
  2. It emphasizes the importance of testing hypotheses through controlled experiments to gather empirical evidence.
  3. The scientific method aims to establish causal relationships, allowing for the formulation and refinement of scientific theories.
  4. It is characterized by its structured and iterative nature, providing a framework for objective and reliable knowledge generation.
•  Inductive Procedure :
  1. The inductive procedure is a broader concept that encompasses various methods of reasoning, including induction. Induction involves drawing general conclusions from specific observations or instances.
  2. Inductive reasoning is one component of the inductive procedure, which also includes other forms of reasoning, such as analogy, abduction, and generalization.
  3. Unlike the scientific method, which often involves controlled experiments and hypothesis testing, the inductive procedure is not necessarily bound by a specific set of steps or criteria.
  4. While the scientific method is a subset of the inductive procedure, the latter extends beyond the confines of scientific inquiry and can be applied in diverse fields, including philosophy, logic, and everyday reasoning.

Relationship Between’ the Scientific Method and Inductive Reasoning :
1. Inductive Reasoning in the Scientific Method : Inductive reasoning plays a significant role within the scientific method. Observations and data collected through experimentation serve as the basis for inductive reasoning, leading to the formulation of general hypotheses and theories.

2. Generalization and Abduction : Generalization, a form of inductive reasoning, is employed in the scientific method when scientists draw broader conclusions from specific observations. Additionally, abduction, the process of forming the best possible explanation for observed phenomena, is often integrated into the scientific method.

3. Scientific Method as a Specific Application of Induction : While the scientific method utilizes inductive reasoning, it is a specific and specialized application of the broader concept of induction. The scientific method adds rigor and structure to the inductive process, emphasizing experimental testing and empirical verification.

4. Controlled Experiments and Deductive Elements : The scientific method incorporates controlled experiments, which involve both inductive and deductive elements. Deductive reasoning is employed in the formulation of hypotheses and predictions based on existing theories, while inductive reasoning is crucial in drawing general conclusions from specific experimental results.

Conclusion :
The scientific method holds immense significance in the realm of scientific inquiry due to its systematic and empirical approach to knowledge generation. Its- structured framework, emphasis on objectivity, and commitment to empirical evidence contribute to the reliability and credibility of scientific conclusions. While the scientifid method incorporates elements of inductive reasoning, it represents a specific and rigorous application within the broader context of the inductive procedure. The scientific method’s ability to facilitate cumulative knowledge, predict outcomes, and adapt to new evidence underscores its enduring importance in advancing our understanding of the natural world.

Question 6.
What sort of explanations are unsatisfactory according to science 7 Discuss.
Answer:
Science values explanations that are grounded in empirical evidence, adhere to logical reasoning, and contribute to a deeper understanding of natural phenomena. In contrast, there are several types of explanations that are considered unsatisfactory within the scientific framework. These unsatisfactory explanations often lack empirical support, rely on non-falsifiable claims, or invoke supernatural entities. Understanding the limitations and criteria for acceptability in scientific explanations is crucial for maintaining the integrity and rigor of scientific inquiry.

Types of Unsatisfactory Explanations in Science :
1. Unfalsifiability :
• Issue : Explanations that are unfalsifiable, meaning they cannot be tested or potentially proven wrong through empirical observation, are considered unsatisfactory in science. If a claim or explanation cannot be subjected to empirical testing or verification, it falls outside the realm of scientific inquiry.

• Example : The existence of an invisible, intangible, and undetectable dragon in someone’s garage. Since the dragon is claimed to be undetectable and leaves no trace, it cannot be subjected to empirical investigation, making the explanation unfalsifiable.

2. Appeal to the Supernatural:
• Issue: Explanations that invoke supernatural entities, forces, or phenomena without providing empirical evidence are generally regarded as unsatisfactory in science. The supernatural, by its nature, lies beyond the scope of empirical observation and testing, making it incompatible with the scientific method.

• Example : Explaining the origin of a natural phenomenon by attributing it to the actions of an invisible, omnipotent being without offering any empirical evidence or testable predictions.

3. Circular Reasoning :
• Issue : Circular reasoning occurs when an explanation assumes what it seeks to prove, creating a self-referential, lohp. Such explanations do not contribute meaningful insights or new information and are considered logically unsatisfactory in science.

• Example : “The Bible is the true word of God because it says so in the Bible.” This statement relies on the authority of the Bible to validate its own truth, creating a circular argument without external empirical support.

4. Ad Hoc Hypotheses:
• Issue: Ad hoc hypotheses are introduced solely to explain away inconsistencies or challenges to a particular theoiy without providing independent empirical support. While ad hoc reasoning can temporarily address objections, it is considered unsatisfactory because it does not contribute to a broader understanding or generate testable predictions.

• Example : Modifying a scientific theory each time new evidence challenges it without providing a more comprehensive or predictive explanation.

5. Overreliance on Anecdotal Evidence:
• Issue: Explanations based solely on anecdotal evidence, personal experiences, or testimonials are generally unsatisfactory in science. Anecdotes lack the systematic control and reliability required for scientific investigation, often leading to biased or unreliable conclusions.

• Example : Arguing that a particular treatment is effective because someone claims to have experienced positive results without rigorous, controlled studies to support the assertion.

6. Reduction to Ignorance:
• Issue : Explaining a phenomenon by attributing it to our current lack of understanding or gaps in knowledge without actively seeking empirical evidence or engaging in further inquiry is considered unsatisfactory. This form of explanation does not contribute to scientific progress or knowledge expansion.

• Example : Asserting that a mysterious event must be the result of unknown or supernatural forces simply because the current scientific understanding is incomplete.

7. Misuse of Scientific Terminology:
• Issue : Inappropriately using scientific terminology or concepts to lend an air of credibility to explanations that lack empirical support is considered unsatisfactory. Misusing scientific language without adhering to scientific principles undermines the rigor of scientific inquiry.

• Example : Asserting that a new-age or pseudoscientific claim is supported by quantum mechanics, even though the claim does not align with the principles or empirical evidence of quantum physics.

Criteria for Satisfactory Explanations in Science:
1. Empirical Evidence : Satisfactory explanations in science must be supported by empirical evidence obtained through systematic observation, experimentation, and measurement. Empirical evidence provides a basis for testing and validating hypotheses.

2. Testability and Falsifiability : Scientific explanations should be testable and potentially falsifiable. The ability to subject a hypothesis or theory to empirical testing allows for the validation or rejection of the explanation based on observed evidence.

3. Logical Coherence : Satisfactory explanations in science should demonstrate logical coherence and consistency. Logical reasoning ensures that the explanation is internally consistent and free from logical fallacies.

4. Predictive Pdwer : Strong scientific explanations possess predictive power—they allow scientists to make testable predictions about future observations or experiments. The ability to predict outcomes adds credibility to scientific explanations.

5. Generality and Scope : Scientific explanations are more satisfactory when they have broad generality and scope, providing a comprehensive understanding of natural phenomena. Generalizable explanations contribute to the development of overarching theories.

6. Reproducibility : For an explanation to be considered satisfactory, the results and observations supporting it should be reproducible by independent researchers. Reproducibility ensures that findings are not merely anecdotal or specific to a particular context.

7. Consensus within the Scientific Community : Satisfactory explanations gain support and acceptance within the scientific community through peer review and consensus-building. Scientific consensus reflects the convergence of evidence and agreement among experts in a particular field.

8. Absence of Circular Reasoning: Scientific explanations should avoid circular reasoning. The formulation of hypotheses, testing, and interpretation of results should follow a logical sequence, and the explanation should not assume what it seeks to prove.

Conclusion :
The significance of the scientific method lies in its ability to provide satisfactory explanations that are grounded in empirical evidence, subject to testing and falsification, and contribute to the cumulative knowledge of the scientific community. Unsatisfactory explanations often fall short of these criteria, relying on anecdotal evidence, circular reasoning, or appeals to the supernatural.

Maintaining the standards of empirical rigor, logical coherence, and testability ensures the integrity and reliability of scientific explanations, fostering the advancement of knowledge and understanding in diverse fields of inquiry.

Group – C

Objective type Questions with Answers
I. Multiple Choice Questions with Answers :

Question 1.
Explanation based on customs, tradictions, superstitions etc. is
(i) Popular Explanation
(ii) Scientific Explanation
(iii) Logical Explanation
(iv) None of these
Answer:
(i) Popular Explanation

Question 2.
The explanation that is regarded by the common men as absolute, certain and final is:
(i) Popular Explanation
(ii) Scientific Explanation
(iii) Logical Explanation
(iv) None of these
Answer:
(i) Popular Explanation

Question 3.
A theoretical account of a fact is :
(i) Popular Explanation
(ii) Scientific Explanation
(iii) Logical Explanation
(iv) None of thesec
Answer:
(ii) Scientific Explanation

Question 4.
Scientific Explanation is :
(i) Systematic
(ii) Coherent
(iii) Logically consistent
(iv) None of these
Answer:
(iv) All of these

Question 5.
Which of the following is not a form of scientific explanation?
(i) Analysis
(ii) Synthesis
(iii) Concatenation
(iv) Subsumption
Answer:
(ii) Synthesis

Question 6.
‘Man is a human being because he is a Home sapien’ is a
(i) Popular explanation
(ii) Scientific explanation
(iii) Fallacious explanation
(iv) None of these
Answer:
(iii) Fallacious explanation

Question 7.
Who says that scientific explanation may be of three types?
(i) Mill
(ii) Nagel
(iii) Copi
Answer:
(i) Mill

Question 8.
Whic one is not a primary quality?
(i) Extension
(ii) Motion
(iii) Gravity
(iv) Colour
Answer:
(iv) Colour

Question 9.
Which one is an elementary sensation?
(i) Shape
(ii) Resistance
(iii) Taste
(iv) Hinesty
Answer:
(iii) Taste

Question 10.
Which one cannot be explained?
(i) Table
(ii) Man
(iii) Teacher
(iv) Pleasure
Answer:
(iv) Pleasure

Question 11.
Which of the following is not a type of scientific explanation?
(i) Analysis
(ii) Generalisation
(iii) Subsumption
(iv) concatenation
Answer:
(ii) Generalisation

Question 12.
‘Famine is due to wrath of gods’ – what type of explanation is it?
(i) Popular
(ii) Scientific
(iii) Naturalistic
Answer:
(i) Popular

Question 13.
‘Table clock makes sounds in order to keep time’ what type of explanation is it?
(i) Genetic
(ii) Functional
(iii) Probabilistic
(iv) Deductive model
Answer:
(ii) Functional.

Question 14.
The aim of explanation is to make things:
(i) Simple
(ii) Gloomy
(iii) Obscure
(iv) Clear
Answer:
(iv) Clear

Question 15.
How many kinds of explanation are there?
(i) Two
(ii) Three
(iii) Four
(iv) Five
Answer:
(i) Two

Question 16.
Popular explanation is based on:
(i) Science
(ii) Evidence
(iii) Blind beliefs
(iv) All of the above
Answer:
(iii) Blind beliefs

Question 17.
How many kinds of scientific explanation, according to Nagel?
(i) One
(ii) Two
(iii) Three
(iv) Four
Answer:
(iv) Four

Question 18.
Which explanation is considered as most satisfactory form of explanation?
(i) Deductive model explanation
(ii) Probabilistic explanation
(iii) Functional explanation
(iv) Genetic explanation
Answer:
(i) Deductive model explanation

Question 19.
Which explanation is statistical in nature?
(i) Deductive model explanation
(ii) Probabilistic explanation
(iii) Functional explanation
(iv) Genetic explanation
Answer:
(ii) Probablistic explanation

II. Fill in the blanks :

Question 1.
There are _____ types of explanation.
Answer:
Two

Question 2.
Popular explanation is basically _____ and _____.
Answer:
Dogmatic, Superstitious.

Question 3.
_____ explanation is not scientific..
Answer:
Popular

Question 4.
According to _____ there are three types of scientific explanation.
Answer:
Mill.

Question 5.
_____ finds out the intermediary links between a remote cause and remote effect.
Answer:
Concatenation

Question 6.
_____ means to bring small laws under the purview of higher laws.
Answer:
Subsumption

Question 7.
According to _____ there are four types of scientific explanation.
Answer:
Nagel

Question 8.
According to Nagel, the most satisfactory form of explanation is _____ explanation.
Answer:
Deductive

Question 9.
Explanation extends our _____.
Answer:
Knowledge.

Question 10.
Explanation involves the clarity of _____.
Answer:
Facts.

Question 11.
Explanation is an aid to _____.
Answer:
Discovery

Question 12.
In _____ explanation the cause is verifiable.
Answer:
Scientific

Question 13.
In _____ explanation natural facts are explained by natural agencies.
Answer:

Question 14.
Scientific explanation is _____ in character.
Answer:
Theoretical

Question 15.
The word teleology is derived from the word _____.
Answer:
Teleos

Question 16.
In _____ explanation we explain a fact with reference to the process of development.
Answer:
Genetic

Question 17.
The limit at explanation is the limit at _____.
Answer:
Assimilation

Question 18.
The hypothesis, theories and laws together constitute a _____.
Answer:
Sysem

Question 19.
_____ explanation gives no room for superstitions, blind beliefs and dogmas..
Answer:
Scientific

III. Correct the Sentences :

Question 1.
Explanation makes a statement gloomy.
Answer:
Explanation makes a statement clear.

Question 2.
There are three types of explanation.
Answer:
There are two types of explanation.

Question 3.
Scientific explanation is based on blind beliefs.
Answer:
Popular explanation is based on blind beliefs.

Question 4.
Popular explanation is based on evidence.
Answer:
Scientific explanation is based on evidence.

Question 5.
According to mill, there are two types of scientific explanation.
Answer:
According to mill, there are three types of scientific explanation.

Question 6.
According to Nagel there are five types of scientific explanation.
Answer:
According to Nagel, there are four types of scientific explanatio.

Question 7.
Explanation creates doubts concerning an event.
Answer:
Explanation removes doubts concerning an event.

Question 8.
Explanation is required for the usual events.
Answer:
Explanation is required for the unusual events.

Question 9.
Explanation limits our knowledge.
Answer:
Explanation enhance our knowledge.

Question 10.
Popular explanation is a theoretical account of a fact.
Answer:
Scientific explanation is a theoretical account of a fact.

Question 11.
Popular explanation is also called as scientific explanation.
Answer:
Popular explanation is also called as unscientific explanation.

IV. Answer the following questions in one word

Question 1.
Which explanation is based on evidence?
Answer:
Scientific

Question 2.
How many kinds of scientific explanation, according to Nagel?
Answer:
Four

Question 3.
Which explantion is wider in scope?
Answer:
Scientific

Question 4.
In which explanation we bring a law under a higher law?
Answer:
Subsumption

Question 5.
In which explanation we explain a fact with reference to purpose or goal?
Answer:
Teleological

Question 6.
Which explanation is based on beliefs?
Answer:
Popular

Question 7.
Are fundamental principles of logic explainable?
Answer:
No

Question 8.
Which explanation, popular or scientific, provides the best explanation ?
Answer:
Scientific.

Question 9.
What is the explanation of a complex fact by its simple causes called?
Answer:
Analysis

Question 10.
Whatis the explanation of a law by a more jgeneral law called?
Ans:
lubsumption

Question 11.
Name any one kind of mill’s scientific explanation?
Answer:
Analysis

Question 12.
How many kinds of scientific explanation did Mill put forth?
Answer:
Three

Question 13.
How many kinds did Bain classify the fallacious explanations?
Answer:
Three

Question 14.
Which laws, primary or secondary, cannot be scientifically explained?
Answer:
Primary

Question 15.
Which of the experimental methods are based on observation?
Answer:
Naturalistic observation