[contessa machiaveli]

what is "occam's razor". it's been mentioned on different threads at different times.

[null and void]

When faced with multiple explainations, the simplest one is usually the right one.

Or,

Don't needlessly multiply entities. - A senario requiring collusion of the FBI, KGB, men in black hats, the Queen of England and Harvy the doughnut man is probably wrong.

[1234]

..."occam's razor"

"fewest possible assumptions are to be made in explaining" sumptin.

[WSGilcrest]

A rule in science and philosophy stating that entities should not be multiplied needlessly. This rule is interpreted to mean that the simplest of two or more competing theories is preferable and that an explanation for unknown phenomena should first be attempted in terms of what is already known. Also called law of parsimony.

[After William of OCKHAM.]

[Skywalk]

Basically it states, "Whichever theory/hypothesis/explanation that requires the least amount of assumptions is usually the correct one"

For instance, the sniper could be a woman outraged at pro-lifers. However, that requires an extraordinary amount of assumptions to essentially invent. Instead, look at the sum total of facts and select which hypothesis requires the fewest amount of groundless assumptions.

[AdA$tra]

what is "occam's razor".

Good definition here^.

[Katya]

Pertaining to William of Occam's Law of parismony....hmmm....don't have the exact latin handy but, basically meaning the simplest explanation is most probable.

[isthisnickcool]

what is "occam's razor". it's been mentioned on different threads at different times.

Looks like you have some excellent answers already. No need for me to add anything.