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3. Occam's Razor, also known as the Principle of Parsimony, can be useful when trying to determine which explanation, among two or more, is most likely to be correct. What is the Principle of Parsimony? Apply the principle to the different explanations offered by Ketchum's team and Syke's team. Which of the competing explanations best passes the razor test, and why? ​

User Riwels
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Answer:

The explanation provided by Syke's team best passes the razor test. It aligns with the principle of simplicity and is more likely to be correct based on Occam's Razor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Principle of Parsimony, also known as Occam's Razor, states that when faced with multiple explanations or hypotheses, the simplest one is usually the most likely to be correct. It suggests that unnecessary complexity should be avoided, and the explanation that requires the fewest assumptions or entities is typically the most accurate.

In the case of the explanations offered by Ketchum's team and Syke's team, we can apply the Principle of Parsimony to evaluate their competing hypotheses. Ketchum's team proposes that the strange occurrences in the town are caused by supernatural beings or paranormal activity. This explanation requires the assumption of the existence of supernatural entities and their involvement in the events.

On the other hand, Syke's team suggests that the strange occurrences can be attributed to natural phenomena and psychological factors. This explanation does not require the assumption of supernatural entities and instead relies on established scientific principles.

Applying Occam's Razor, the explanation offered by Syke's team is more parsimonious. It avoids unnecessary complexity by relying on known natural phenomena and psychological factors, which are supported by scientific evidence. In contrast, Ketchum's team's explanation introduces additional assumptions and entities without sufficient evidence.

Therefore, the explanation provided by Syke's team best passes the razor test. It aligns with the principle of simplicity and is more likely to be correct based on Occam's Razor.

User Aleks G
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