The 41st Ockham Lecture - 'Occam's Razor: Are Simple Explanations Better?'

To be given by Vijay Balasubramanian George Eastman Visiting Professor, University of Oxford & Balliol College; Cathy & Marc Lasry Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA

Abstract

William of Ockham (c. 1278-1347), who studied theology at Oxford, inspired what scientists now call Occam's Razor, a principle of parsimony in reasoning about the world which holds that simpler models are better. This principle built on ideas circulating among Scholastic philosophers of his day, including Duns Scotus (c. 1265-1308), who maintained that 'Pluralitas non est ponenda sine necessitate,' or 'Plurality should not be posited without necessity.' Ockham wielded this principle like a scalpel to cut away unnecessary parts of an argument. But why? Is it true that simpler explanations are closer to the truth, and what do 'simpler' and 'better' mean, anyway? I will address these questions by discussing mathematical and physical reasons for why bounded agents with limited resources may achieve more accurate descriptions of phenomena by using simpler models.

The Ockham Lecture Series

The Merton College Physics Lecture (the Ockham, or Occam, Lecture, so named in honour of one of the greatest—if unattested—alumni of the College and of his philosophical principle of intellectual discipline) started in 2009 and is held once a term. It is organised by the physics tutors of the College to promote both intellectual curiosity and social cohesion of the Merton Physics community.

Attendance is by invitation: All Merton physicists (and sympathisers) belonging to the three Common Rooms (JCR, MCR and SCR) are invited, as are the Old Members. Their guests are also accommodated, space permitting. To sign up, please visit the Ockham Lecture Facebook page.