I have seen frequently in the media it depicted as "the simplest explanation is correct".
The principle of Occam's razor is "remove unnecessary factors", this will reveal a simpler explanation but the objective is to do this whilst still retaining empirical validity. Scientific method never claims to find "the truth", just the explanations that ought to be assumed.
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Anonymous2008-05-27 11:46
I agree partially but you can make it more clear when you choose the proper definition of simplest.
In the original Latin:
"entia non sunt multiplicanda praeter necessitatem"
Which can be translated as "entities are not to be multiplied beyond necessity," or, more plainly, we should always start with the hypothesis that introduces the smallest number of untested assumptions.
"All other things being equal, the simplest solution is the best."
I say, "All other things being equal, the simplest question or equation is the best."
Perhaps this is actually a reinforcement upon the previous, who knows?
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AnOnYmOuS 2U2008-05-27 13:13
Another reason the media do what they do is out of self-preservation, therefore they are no exception to their own rules. The simplest explanation to why they believe in the simplest explanation to be correct is that this idea brings them ratings, and thereby sustains their biological needs. There, the big riddle is solved. The easiest answer for all people's problems?
Biology.
The easiest answer for communication problems?
Respect.
What happens when you put the two together?
Problems?
Segregation & War
Solutions?
Communication & Cooperation