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(2013) Synthese 190 (3).

Explanation by induction?

Miguel Hoeltje, Benjamin Schnieder , Alex Steinberg

pp. 509-524

Philosophers of mathematics commonly distinguish between explanatory and non-explanatory proofs. An important subclass of mathematical proofs are proofs by induction. Are they explanatory? This paper addresses the question, based on general principles about explanation. First, a recent argument for a negative answer is discussed and rebutted. Second, a case is made for a qualified positive take on the issue.

Publication details

DOI: 10.1007/s11229-011-0045-z

Full citation:

Hoeltje, M. , Schnieder, B. , Steinberg, A. (2013). Explanation by induction?. Synthese 190 (3), pp. 509-524.