How do theories reflect the law of parsimony?
A)Good theories should be based on the smallest amount of data possible.
B)Theories should be supported by several researchers.
C)Theories usually do not need to be tested if they are concise.
D)Good theories tend to be the simplest explanations that fit the data.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The law of parsimony, also known as Occam's razor, states that the simplest explanation that fits the data is usually the best. Therefore, good theories tend to be the simplest explanations that fit the data. Option A is incorrect because good theories should be based on enough data to support their claims, but not necessarily the smallest amount of data possible. Option B is incorrect because theories should not rely solely on the number of researchers who support them, as the quality of evidence and data is more important. Option C is incorrect because all theories need to be tested to ensure their accuracy and to identify potential flaws.

How Do Theories Reflect the Law of Parsimony