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On a recent argument for the impossibility of a statistical explanation of single events, and a defence of a modified form of Hempel's theory of statistical explanation

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Abstract

An argument has been recently proposed by Watkins, whose objective is to show the impossibility of a statistical explanation of single events. This present paper is an attempt to show that Watkins's argument is unsuccessful, and goes on to argue for an account of statistical explanation which has much in common with Hempel's classic treatment.

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References

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I am very grateful to Peter Clark for many helpful discussions of these issues.

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Howson, C. On a recent argument for the impossibility of a statistical explanation of single events, and a defence of a modified form of Hempel's theory of statistical explanation. Erkenntnis 29, 113–124 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00166368

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00166368

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